Final answer:
It is false that all sociological encounters are face-to-face; modern technology has expanded the ways in which we can have meaningful interactions beyond physical presence, all of which sociologists study as significant to the social construction of reality.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the sociological definition of encounters, it is false that all of our encounters are face-to-face. With the advent of technology, we engage in a myriad of interactions that occur in online environments, which do not require physical presence. Sociological studies recognize these forms of communication, and the theory of symbolic interactionism becomes particularly relevant. We understand that our day-to-day online interactions, much like face-to-face encounters, contribute to the construction of social reality, through the symbols and meanings we exchange, even if they are not in a face-to-face context.
Our roles and the way we interact with others shape this social reality. Whether they occur in person or online, these interactions influence our understanding of the world, the roles we play within it, and the symbols we use to communicate, which includes language, gestures, and other forms of non-verbal communication. These elements are essential for sociologists when analyzing and understanding the social construction of reality.
Therefore, the statement that encounters must be face-to-face to be considered within the sociological framework is incorrect. Our modern means of communication, including digital platforms, have expanded what we consider an encounter in the field of sociology.