Erving Goffman

Definition

Erving Goffman was a Canadian sociologist known for his work on social interaction and the presentation of self in everyday life. His theories focus on how individuals manage their identities and impressions during interpersonal communication, emphasizing the role of social contexts and norms in shaping these interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goffman's work emphasizes that social interactions are heavily influenced by the context and the expectations of the people involved.
2. He introduced the concept of 'face' which refers to a person's self-esteem or emotional value during social interactions.
3. Goffman argued that individuals constantly engage in impression management to create desired perceptions among their peers.
4. His book 'The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life' is foundational in understanding the complexities of social interactions and identity construction.
5. Goffman's insights into stigma highlight how societal labels affect individuals' identities and how they navigate social spaces.

Review Questions

• How does Erving Goffman's concept of dramaturgical analysis relate to everyday interpersonal communication?
  • Goffman's concept of dramaturgical analysis illustrates that everyday interpersonal communication resembles a theatrical performance where individuals assume roles based on social expectations. In this framework, people manage their behavior and presentation in different contexts, like adapting their speech and body language depending on their audience. This approach helps us understand how individuals navigate complex social situations to create favorable impressions.
• Discuss how Goffman's idea of impression management influences social interactions in various settings.
  • Goffman's idea of impression management plays a crucial role in shaping social interactions as individuals strive to present themselves in a way that aligns with societal norms and expectations. In professional settings, for example, people may adopt a more formal demeanor to convey competence and authority. Conversely, in casual settings, individuals may choose to be more relaxed and authentic, showcasing different aspects of their personality based on the context and audience.
• Evaluate the relevance of Goffman's insights on stigma in contemporary society, particularly regarding identity and social perception.
  • Goffman's insights on stigma remain highly relevant in contemporary society as they shed light on how societal labels can significantly affect individuals' identities and experiences. In today's world, stigmatized identities related to mental health, race, or sexuality can lead to discrimination and marginalization. By understanding Goffman's concepts, we can better analyze how people navigate their identities amidst societal pressures, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for more inclusive perceptions.

Related terms

Dramaturgical Analysis: A sociological perspective that views social interactions as theatrical performances where individuals play roles, manage impressions, and navigate different settings.

Impression Management: The process by which individuals attempt to control the perceptions others form about them through verbal and non-verbal communication.

Front Stage and Back Stage: Concepts used by Goffman to describe the different settings in which individuals perform: 'front stage' is where individuals present themselves to an audience, while 'back stage' is where they can relax and be themselves without the public persona.