Chapter 7: Symbolic Interactionism

Question 1

Goffmans Dramaturgical Theory:

Answer 1

Goffman’s Dramaturgical Theory views social interactions as akin to theatrical performances, where individuals play different roles and manage impressions.

Impression Management: Verbal And Role Taking (Non verbal/appearance)

Front stage: Represents the public persona individuals display in social settings.
Actors perform to maintain a desired image, adhering to societal norms and expectations.

Back Stage: Represents the private sphere where individuals prepare for their public roles.
Actors may drop their facade and behave authentically, away from the scrutiny of the audience.

Question 2

Meads: The Self

Answer 2

All human interaction & communication (especially language) are based solely on “significant symbols”
Individuals are socialized/taught by significant others to share symbols & the ways symbols lead to common patterns of action.
The social world is constructed by individuals interacting through the use of shared symbols

I= The element of the self that is spontaneous,
creative, impulsive, can be unpredictable.

Me=Helps to control the “I”, the self-reflective part of the consciousness that thinks about how to behave.

Question 3

Blumers theory of Social Interaction:

Answer 3

People must interact with one another using both verbal & non-verbal symbols.
People act toward things based on the real meaning that those symbols have for them.
Which are derived from social interaction;
modified through interpretation.