Question

7. Considering Goffman's theory of dramaturgy (the theory in which Goffman introduces the concept of impression management), does engaging in impression management mean that we have no basic unchanging/true self? Explain.

this question is on sociology

Answer 1

Goffman’s dramaturgy brings out the concept of impression management which suggests that people typically have two stages such as, front and back. When people are with others, they use the front stage, in which they adjust their behaviours and attitudes in a way to make it impressing and acceptable to others. This would normally be different from the back stage when one is with one’s own where one would hold on to one’s real self. This would mean that one would be able to live without worrying about others when one is not in the presence of others. However, this doesn’t mean that one cannot have one’s real self because it’s important for people to adjust to the groups due to the differences in people and to maintain cordial relationship which is called emotional intelligence and social coping skills.

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