According to George Herbert Mead, how do 'significant others' influence the process of identity formation in individuals within a symbolic interactionist framework?

George Herbert Mead believed that 'significant others' play a crucial role in shaping our identities through interactions and communication. These significant others, such as parents, friends, and teachers, provide feedback and reactions that help us understand how we are perceived in society. For example, if a child receives praise for being kind, they may begin to see themselves as a caring person, which becomes part of their identity. This process occurs through symbolic interaction, where the meanings we attach to our experiences and relationships influence how we view ourselves. Overall, our identities are formed and refined by the social interactions we have with those who matter most to us.