W 12.1 (may 20) - jaejun Kim(김재준)

1. Summary

Erving Goffman's theatrical theory compares human interactions to a theatrical performance. According to this theory, individuals portray themselves as actors on a stage in their daily lives. They play specific roles in public settings, such as workplaces or formal meetings, adhering to social expectations and norms.

Behind the scenes, individuals have private spaces where they can behave more authentically, away from their social roles. This might include being alone at home or with close friends, where they can express their true selves without the need to conform to societal expectations.

Off stage refers to interactions that occur independently of the main performance, where individuals engage with others outside of formal roles. Goffman categorizes audience members in various roles such as informants, mediators, service providers, and friends, each contributing differently to the social dynamics.

2. interesting point

One intriguing aspect of Goffman's theory is the stress individuals experience in managing their self-presentation. Factors contributing to this stress include societal expectations, conflicts between different roles individuals play, and the scrutiny of others. This stress can lead to physical and psychological symptoms like headaches, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

Managing this stress is crucial and can be achieved through methods such as exercise, meditation, and setting realistic goals. Organizations can support individuals by offering psychological counseling or mentoring programs. Creating a social environment that respects individual differences helps reduce the burden of excessive self-presentation.

3. Discussion Questions

Comparing Backstage and Frontstage: How do the behaviors and interactions differ between the backstage (private settings) and the frontstage (public settings) according to Goffman's theatrical theory? What implications does this distinction have for understanding social dynamics?

Comments

  1. Heo jong yeolJune 22, 2024 at 1:16 AM

    Your summary of Erving Goffman's theatrical theory was insightful, especially in highlighting how individuals navigate between frontstage and backstage settings in their daily interactions. It's fascinating to consider the implications of these different social contexts on behavior and self-presentation.

    Regarding your discussion question about comparing backstage and frontstage behaviors, exploring specific examples could deepen the analysis. For instance, how do interactions differ at a family dinner (backstage) versus a formal business meeting (frontstage)? Understanding these distinctions can offer insights into how individuals manage their public image and maintain authenticity in different social settings.

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