The Role of Mead's Symbolic Interactionism in Understanding the Dynamics of Individual Health Beliefs and Collective Healthy Behavior in Jatinangor

Healthy behavior is a key foundation in achieving the Healthy Indonesia 2030 agenda and must be developed at both individual and collective levels. This effort is supported by the availability of health services across all levels to promote prevention, early detection, and disease management. This study explores health belief factors that shape healthy behavior among the Jatinangor community using George Herbert Mead’s Symbolic Interactionism Theory. This perspective emphasizes that the meaning of healthy behavior is formed through social interaction, interpretation of social expectations (the generalized other), and symbolic communication processes. A qualitative approach was applied using in-depth interviews, observations, and focus group discussions (FGDs). The findings reveal that most participants possessed strong health beliefs, indicated by a high perception of health risks and a strong belief in the benefits of preventive actions. In addition, supportive community environments, ongoing health promotion, and mutual respect among individuals were identified as important contributors to psychological well-being. These factors reflect the role of symbolic interaction in shaping individual and collective health behavior. In conclusion, health beliefs, motivation, self-regulation, social support, and mindset formed through continuous social interaction—play a crucial role in achieving physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, strengthening community participation and peer support networks is recommended to enhance sustainable healthy behavior in the Jatinangor District.