Final answer:
Mead's 'me' develops through social interaction stages and internalization of societal norms, allowing individuals to view themselves from the perspectives of others, culminating in a sense of self.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mead's concept that develops gradually through interaction and internalization of society, and monitors the 'I' is known as the 'me'. George Herbert Mead's symbolic interactionism emphasizes the micro-level of analysis, detailing how individuals develop a sense of self through stages of social interaction. Initially, in the preparatory stage, children imitate others without the ability to understand different perspectives. Progressing to the play stage, they begin to adopt and act out roles they observe, like playing 'mom' or 'dad'. Eventually, they reach the understanding of the generalized other, representing the societal norms and expectations, which allows them to view themselves from the perspectives of others and develop self-awareness.