significant others

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significant others This concept, which is derived from the Meadian theory of the self, highlights the ability of social actors to take the role of others. There are many others whose roles may be taken—ranging from those of strangers to that of the whole community. Significant others are those who have an important influence or play a formative role in shaping the behaviour of another. Since Mead, the concept has entered general and even popular use, as in Armistead Maupin's novel Significant Others.