Goffman's Theories

Erving Goffman’s theories focus on how people present themselves and manage impressions in everyday life, much like actors performing on stage. He believed social interactions are like a performance, where individuals portray certain images to fit social expectations. Goffman also introduced the concept of “face,” which is the respect and dignity we try to maintain during interactions. He emphasized that social situations involve unspoken rules and strategies to navigate roles, impressions, and relationships, helping us understand how identity and social order are constructed through everyday behavior.