Impression Management

Definition

Impression management is the process by which individuals attempt to control the perceptions others form of them in social interactions. It involves presenting oneself in a way that influences how one is perceived, often through the manipulation of verbal and nonverbal cues. This concept is vital in understanding social behavior, as it underscores the importance of self-presentation and the roles that context and audience play in shaping interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impression management can involve both conscious and unconscious efforts to shape perceptions, such as adjusting tone of voice, facial expressions, or even clothing.
2. It plays a crucial role in various settings, including job interviews, social media, and everyday social interactions, where people often curate their identities.
3. Goffman’s theory of dramaturgy describes social interactions as performances where individuals play roles based on their audience, emphasizing the theatrical nature of impression management.
4. Failure in impression management can lead to negative evaluations or social embarrassment, making it essential for maintaining relationships and social standing.
5. Cultural factors significantly influence impression management strategies, as norms about behavior and self-presentation vary widely across different societies.

Review Questions

• How does impression management relate to the roles individuals play in different social contexts?
  • Impression management is closely linked to the roles individuals adopt in various social contexts. Each role comes with specific expectations and norms that dictate how one should behave, speak, and present themselves. By aligning their self-presentation with these expectations, individuals can effectively manage how they are perceived by others, thus influencing their social interactions and outcomes. The ability to adapt one's behavior based on context is key to successful impression management.
• Discuss the implications of impression management on interpersonal relationships and communication effectiveness.
  • Impression management has significant implications for interpersonal relationships as it directly affects how individuals perceive each other. Effective impression management can enhance communication by fostering trust and rapport, while poor management may lead to misunderstandings or conflict. The ability to convey a desired image can facilitate smoother interactions and strengthen bonds between individuals. However, excessive manipulation may also lead to authenticity issues, where others may question the sincerity of one's actions.
• Evaluate the role of cultural differences in shaping impression management practices across societies.
  • Cultural differences play a pivotal role in shaping impression management practices, as various cultures have distinct norms regarding self-presentation and acceptable behavior. For instance, some cultures value modesty and indirect communication, while others promote assertiveness and self-promotion. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for effective communication in diverse settings. The ways individuals manage impressions are influenced by their cultural background, which ultimately impacts how they navigate social interactions and relationships within those contexts.

Related terms

Self-Presentation: The act of displaying oneself in a certain way to influence how others perceive you.

Social Roles: The expected behaviors and responsibilities associated with particular positions in society that influence how individuals interact with one another.

Facework: The actions taken to maintain a positive self-image and protect one’s social identity during interactions.