Overview
This lecture discusses sociologist Erving Goffman's theory of dramaturgy, focusing on how people present themselves differently in public and private settings.
Goffman's Observations on Social Behavior
- People consciously plan their actions to influence how others perceive them.
- Individuals act differently in group settings compared to when they are alone.
- The goal is to present the best possible version of themselves to others.
Dramaturgy: The Theatrical Metaphor
- Dramaturgy refers to using theatrical concepts to explain people's social interactions.
- Social life is compared to acting in a play, where individuals perform roles.
Frontstage Behavior
- "Frontstage" is when individuals are in social settings and act for an audience.
- People may pretend to like things or adopt behaviors to fit in and make friends.
- Frontstage actions are designed to shape others' impressions positively.
Backstage Behavior
- "Backstage" is the private area where people can be themselves without an audience.
- Actions backstage reflect a person's true preferences and personality.
- Few or no people see an individual's backstage behavior.
Social Media and the Blurring of Stages
- Social media encourages people to present a front even in their private lives.
- Individuals may portray themselves as happier or more interesting than they really are.
- The distinction between frontstage and backstage is increasingly blurred online.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Dramaturgy — A theory by Goffman explaining social interactions as theatrical performances.
- Frontstage — Social setting where people perform roles to influence how others see them.
- Backstage — Private setting where people act as their true selves without concern for others' impressions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review concepts of frontstage and backstage for class discussion.
- Reflect on examples from your own life where you notice these behaviors.
- Prepare to discuss how social media may affect your frontstage and backstage.