Self-presentation

Definition

Self-presentation is the process through which individuals consciously or unconsciously manage the impressions they convey to others in social interactions. It involves the strategies and behaviors people use to influence how they are perceived, often adapting to different contexts and audiences to create favorable images of themselves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-presentation can vary based on context, as individuals adjust their behavior and appearance depending on the situation and audience.
2. Goffman's dramaturgical approach emphasizes that life is like a play where individuals are actors who perform various roles depending on the social setting.
3. Nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, play a crucial role in self-presentation, influencing how messages are received.
4. Online platforms have created new dynamics for self-presentation, allowing individuals to curate their image through carefully selected content and interactions.
5. Failure in self-presentation can lead to social embarrassment or rejection, making effective impression management an important aspect of social interactions.

Review Questions

• How does Goffman's concept of front stage and back stage relate to self-presentation?
  • Goffman's concepts of front stage and back stage are critical in understanding self-presentation. The front stage refers to the social setting where individuals perform their roles and manage impressions according to societal expectations. In contrast, the back stage is where people can drop their performances and reveal their true selves. This distinction highlights the layers of self-presentation that people navigate in daily interactions, as they adapt their behavior based on the environment and audience.
• Discuss the role of nonverbal communication in self-presentation during daily interactions.
  • Nonverbal communication significantly influences self-presentation by conveying emotions and attitudes without words. Body language, eye contact, facial expressions, and gestures all contribute to how individuals manage impressions. For example, maintaining open body language can project confidence, while avoiding eye contact may suggest insecurity. These nonverbal cues are crucial for reinforcing or contradicting verbal messages during interactions, shaping how one is perceived by others.
• Evaluate how social media has transformed traditional notions of self-presentation and impression management.
  • Social media has dramatically reshaped traditional concepts of self-presentation by allowing individuals to curate their public images more selectively than ever before. Users can craft a specific persona through posts, photos, and interactions, leading to a more intentional approach to impression management. However, this also raises concerns about authenticity and the potential for creating unrealistic standards. The pressure to maintain a polished online presence can affect individuals' self-esteem and relationships, highlighting the complexities involved in modern self-presentation.

Related terms

impression management: The conscious or unconscious efforts made by individuals to control how they are perceived by others.

front stage: The social space where individuals perform their self-presentation, adhering to societal expectations and norms.

back stage: The private area where individuals can relax and be themselves, away from the scrutiny of others, often revealing a more authentic self.