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MENTAL MODEL · M2732

The Generalized Other

The Generalized Other
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

In the process of socialization, individuals not only imitate specific people (such as their mother) but also learn to internalize the common norms and attitudes of social groups as the 'generalized other'. When we are alone, the 'conscience' or 'social gaze' that supervises our behavior is the generalized other.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- Moral constraint: A sign of maturity is having a stable 'generalized other' in mind. Even in places without surveillance cameras, you still follow the rules because your inner 'society' is watching you.

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Anchor fast decisions

Mead's concept: Individuals internalize the attitudes and expectations of social groups, forming the 'generalized other' as a reference for self-examination; society exists within the self.

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Generalized_otherZH · Explicit
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