Erving Goffman

Definition

Erving Goffman was a Canadian sociologist known for his contributions to understanding social interaction and the concept of self-presentation in everyday life. His work focuses on how individuals manage their identities and social roles in various contexts, often drawing parallels to theatrical performance. Goffman's ideas are particularly relevant when examining the dynamics of personal relationships, healthcare interactions, and societal expectations surrounding marriage and divorce.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goffman introduced the idea of 'dramaturgical analysis,' where he likened social interactions to theatrical performances where individuals play roles to convey certain images.
2. His book 'The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life' emphasizes how people construct their identities based on the expectations of their social environment.
3. Goffman explored how stigma impacts individuals, particularly in healthcare settings where patients may feel judged based on their conditions.
4. He highlighted the importance of context in shaping behavior, suggesting that interactions differ significantly in formal settings like hospitals compared to informal ones like home.
5. Goffman's work sheds light on the pressures individuals face in personal relationships, particularly during marriage and divorce, where societal norms heavily influence identity management.

Review Questions

• How does Goffman's concept of impression management relate to interactions within healthcare settings?
  • Goffman's concept of impression management is crucial in healthcare interactions, where patients and healthcare professionals both play specific roles. Patients often seek to present themselves in a way that fosters empathy and understanding, while doctors may emphasize professionalism and expertise. This dynamic can affect the quality of care received, as both parties navigate their identities based on expectations and social norms surrounding health and illness.
• Discuss how Goffman's idea of front stage and back stage applies to the experience of marriage and divorce.
  • In the context of marriage and divorce, Goffman's front stage is characterized by the public presentation of a couple's relationship, often idealized and managed to meet societal expectations. In contrast, the back stage represents the private struggles and realities faced by couples away from public view. This distinction highlights how couples may feel pressured to maintain a certain image during marriage while grappling with personal challenges behind closed doors, especially during divorce when their true feelings often clash with societal perceptions.
• Evaluate the implications of Goffman's theories on stigma for individuals navigating personal relationships affected by health issues.
  • Goffman's theories on stigma reveal significant implications for individuals dealing with health issues as they navigate personal relationships. Stigmatized identities can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety, affecting how individuals present themselves in both romantic and familial contexts. By understanding how stigma operates within personal relationships, it's possible to create more supportive environments that encourage open communication and acceptance. This awareness can ultimately foster healthier interactions and reduce the negative impacts of stigma on an individual's self-esteem and relationship dynamics.

Related terms

Impression Management: The process by which individuals attempt to influence the perceptions of others by controlling the information they present in social interactions.

Stigma:

A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person, which can affect how individuals are perceived in society.

Front Stage and Back Stage: Concepts that describe the different contexts in which people perform their identities; 'front stage' refers to public performances, while 'back stage' is where individuals can relax and be themselves away from public scrutiny.