self presentation

Fundamental Dialectic in Social Interaction

• Individuals seek to uncover social facts and data during interactions.

• Perceptions of reality are often based on available cues rather than full information.

• Moral implications arise from the impressions formed by individuals about one another.

Role of the Observer

• Observers make judgments based on impressions, which are treated as moral claims.

• Little attention may be given by individuals to the impression they create, focusing instead on genuine action.

• Individuals can influence perceptions by controlling the impressions they give rather than allowing them to occur naturally.

Performance of Self

• Individuals perform to maintain the impression of living up to societal standards.

• The distinction between performer and character:

  • Performer: fabricates impressions and engages in presentation.

  • Character: embodies qualities that are evoked during the performance.

• The self is a dramatic effect created by the scene rather than an intrinsic trait of the individual.

Social Structure and Self-Presentation

• The self is produced from social interactions and environments, encompassing a collaborative effort.

• A performer requires training and possesses social desires and anxieties related to their role.

• The concept of 'stage' in social interactions emphasizes the performance aspect of daily life.

Overall Implications

• The nature of social encounters revolves around maintaining a shared definition of the situation.

• Successful social interaction involves employing real techniques similar to those used in theater, but with genuine implications for daily life.