Goffman's Frame Analysis

Goffman's Frame Analysis is a way of understanding how people interpret and organize their experiences in different social situations. It suggests that individuals use mental "frames"—shared understandings or contexts—to make sense of what’s happening around them. For example, knowing whether a gathering is a casual hangout or a formal event helps people behave appropriately by applying the relevant frame. These frames shape perceptions and guide interactions, allowing us to quickly understand the meaning of different situations. Essentially, Frame Analysis reveals how our minds create structured contexts that influence how we interpret and respond to the world.