Irving Goffman

Definition

Irving Goffman was a Canadian sociologist known for his work on the presentation of self in everyday life, focusing on how individuals perform roles in social interactions. His theories highlight the concept of 'face-to-face' interaction, emphasizing how people manage their impressions and create identities based on context. Goffman's insights are crucial for understanding the dynamics of in-depth interviews, where interviewers and respondents navigate social roles and expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goffman's seminal work, 'The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life,' published in 1959, lays the foundation for understanding how individuals perform roles based on social settings.
2. His concept of dramaturgy suggests that individuals engage in performance to influence how others perceive them, effectively becoming actors in their own social scenes.
3. Impression management is a key element in Goffman's theories, highlighting that people actively shape how they are seen by others through their actions and communication.
4. Goffman's exploration of 'face work' examines how individuals negotiate social interactions to maintain dignity and respect in both personal and professional relationships.
5. His ideas have significantly influenced qualitative research methods, particularly in understanding the relational dynamics at play during in-depth interviews.

Review Questions

• How does Goffman's concept of dramaturgy enhance our understanding of social interactions during in-depth interviews?
  • Goffman's concept of dramaturgy enhances our understanding of social interactions by illustrating how both interviewers and respondents act as performers, adjusting their behaviors and responses based on the context of the interview. This perspective shows that the interaction is not merely a transfer of information but a complex performance where each party manages their roles to influence perceptions. Recognizing this dynamic helps researchers appreciate the subtleties involved in building rapport and eliciting authentic responses.
• Discuss the importance of impression management in the context of conducting in-depth interviews according to Goffman's theories.
  • Impression management is crucial in conducting in-depth interviews as it influences how both the interviewer and the interviewee present themselves. Goffman's theories suggest that each participant strives to create favorable impressions, which can affect the quality and authenticity of the information shared. This means that interviewers must be aware of their own impression management techniques while also being sensitive to how respondents might adjust their answers to fit perceived expectations.
• Evaluate how Goffman’s ideas about face work can impact the outcomes of qualitative research during in-depth interviews.
  • Goffman’s ideas about face work can significantly impact qualitative research outcomes by highlighting the importance of maintaining dignity and respect within interview interactions. When researchers understand the delicate balance of face work, they can create an environment where respondents feel safe and valued, leading to more open and honest discussions. This awareness can result in richer data collection and a deeper understanding of respondents' perspectives, ultimately enhancing the validity of research findings.

Related terms

Dramaturgy: A sociological perspective introduced by Goffman, likening social interactions to a theatrical performance where individuals present themselves in ways that will be accepted by others.

Impression Management: The process through which individuals attempt to control the perceptions others have of them during social interactions.

Face Work: The actions taken by individuals to maintain a positive self-image and to support the self-image of others in social situations.