Bob's football coach is a very important influence in his life. Many of Bob's actions are attempts to win the approval of his coach. Mead would suggest that the coach is one of Bob's ________.

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According to Mead's theory of symbolic interactionism, significant others are individuals who are most important in shaping a person's self-concept and behavior. Bob's football coach is significant because he has a major influence on Bob's actions, and Bob seeks his approval. The other options do not fit this scenario as closely. A generalized other refers to the attitudes and expectations of a society, not an individual. Primary group members are individuals with whom a person has close, personal relationships, which may not necessarily apply to a coach. Similarly, reference group members are people we compare ourselves to, but they may not have a direct influence on our behavior like a coach would.

Bob's Football Coach Is a Very Important Influence in His