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Impression Management

By iHeartPodcasts

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, hosts Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark examine sociologist Erving Goffman's theory that social interactions mirror theatrical performances. The hosts explore how people present different versions of themselves depending on their social setting, introducing Goffman's concepts of "front stage" and "backstage" selves—the way we act in public versus private settings.

The discussion delves into the various techniques people use to manage others' impressions of them, from facial expressions to emotional control. Bryant and Clark also address how impression management affects marginalized groups, examining practices like code-switching in the African-American community and the pressure some individuals face to modify their behavior or conceal stigmatized features to navigate different social environments.

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Impression Management

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Impression Management

1-Page Summary

Erving Goffman's Dramaturgical Theory of Social Interaction

On their podcast, Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark explore Erving Goffman's influential theory that views social interactions as theatrical performances. According to Goffman, people act as performers presenting different versions of themselves depending on their social setting.

The Concepts of "Front Stage" and "Backstage" Selves

Goffman's theory introduces the concept of the "front stage" self—a curated persona that adheres to social norms and expectations. As Bryant and Clark discuss, people naturally adjust their behavior based on context, such as acting differently at work versus with friends. The "backstage" self, in contrast, represents a more authentic and informal version of oneself that emerges in private settings or among close friends and family.

The Factors and Techniques Involved In Impression Management

The hosts explore how people actively manage others' impressions of them through various techniques. This includes aligning facial expressions with verbal communication, practicing emotional restraint, and associating with esteemed others. Bryant and Clark note that impression management can be both conscious and unconscious, with some behaviors being deliberately practiced while others occur automatically through lifelong conditioning.

Role of Authenticity and Stigma in Impression Management

While impression management is often viewed as inauthentic, Goffman argues that the "authentic" self is always selectively revealed. The hosts discuss how impression management becomes particularly crucial for stigmatized individuals who may need to modify their behavior to avoid discrimination. Bryant shares an example of an Indian American schoolmate who Americanized her name before later reclaiming her original name.

Implications of Impression Management for Marginalized Groups

The discussion highlights how marginalized individuals often face additional pressure to manage impressions through practices like code-switching. Bryant explains how this is particularly prevalent in the African-American community, where individuals might adjust their behavior and speech between family settings and "white America." Clark adds that some individuals may feel compelled to cover stigmatized features to increase their chances of success in various social situations.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Dramaturgical Theory of Social Interaction, developed by Erving Goffman, likens social interactions to theatrical performances. In this theory, individuals are seen as actors who present different versions of themselves depending on the social context. Goffman's framework includes concepts like the "front stage" self, which is the persona displayed in public, and the "backstage" self, representing a more authentic self in private settings. This theory emphasizes how individuals actively manage impressions through their behaviors and expressions in various social situations.
  • In Erving Goffman's Dramaturgical Theory, the "front stage" self is the persona people present to the public, adhering to social norms. The "backstage" self is the more authentic, private self that emerges in personal settings. People switch between these roles based on the social context they are in, adjusting their behavior accordingly. This concept illustrates how individuals navigate different versions of themselves depending on the audience and setting.
  • Impression management involves consciously or subconsciously influencing how others perceive a person, object, or event through controlling information in social interactions. It encompasses behaviors like providing explanations, making excuses, and conforming opinions to shape others' impressions. This concept was introduced by Erving Goffman in 1956 and expanded upon in 1967, emphasizing the strategic presentation of oneself in various contexts. Impression management is a versatile practice applicable in diverse settings, from face-to-face interactions to online platforms, and can be employed with different intentions, whether benevolent or malicious.
  • Code-switching is the practice of alternating between two or more languages or language varieties within a conversation. It can occur for various reasons, such as to express identity, accommodate different language speakers, or convey nuanced meanings. This linguistic phenomenon is distinct from being multilingual, as it involves the intentional mixing of languages during communication. Code-switching can take place at different linguistic levels, from entire sentences to individual words or morphemes.

Counterarguments

  • The concept of "front stage" and "backstage" selves may oversimplify the complexity of human identity, which can be fluid and multifaceted beyond just two dimensions.
  • The idea that the "backstage" self is more authentic than the "front stage" self can be contested, as authenticity is subjective and can be present in both public and private personas.
  • Some argue that impression management is not inherently inauthentic but rather a necessary part of social interaction and adaptation to different contexts.
  • Critics may suggest that Goffman's theory does not fully account for the influence of power dynamics and systemic inequalities on social interactions and impression management.
  • The theory might be criticized for not sufficiently considering cultural differences in the expression of self and the management of impressions.
  • There is a debate about whether the pressure to engage in practices like code-switching is a form of cultural adaptation or a response to systemic biases and discrimination.
  • Some may argue that the focus on individual impression management overlooks the role of societal structures in shaping behavior and identity.
  • The theory could be seen as placing too much emphasis on the strategic aspects of social interaction, potentially neglecting more spontaneous or genuine forms of communication.
  • It might be argued that the theory does not fully address the psychological impact of constantly managing impressions, such as the potential for stress or identity confusion.
  • There could be a counterargument that the theory is dated and does not fully apply to modern, digital forms of interaction, where the lines between "front stage" and "backstage" are increasingly blurred.

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Impression Management

Erving Goffman's Dramaturgical Theory of Social Interaction

Erving Goffman's work laid the foundation for understanding social interactions as performances, with Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark discussing how Goffman's theories apply to the "front stage self" and the concept of "impression management."

Goffman Saw Interactions as Theater; Individuals Are "Actors" Presenting a "Front Stage" Self

Erving Goffman observed that interactions are like performances where individuals act as performers on stage. Chuck Bryant relates this to putting on their "best faces" for the episode, invoking the idea of a "front stage self" that people present in various social settings. Goffman's seminal work, "The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life," explores this notion of performance aspect in everyday interactions. Josh Clark expands on the idea by explaining that people perform differently depending on their social setting, like school or a bar, constantly adapting their "front stage selves" to align with the expectations of the social setting they are in.

Goffman on Performative Everyday Interactions

The podcast hosts delve into the nuances of Goffman's theory, such as "impression management," the deliberate control and shaping of one's presentation to influence perception by others. Goffman's idea of "face work," which encompasses desires like saving face or managing facial expressions, also plays into this. For example, even if words during a disagreement are measured, an incongruent facial expression can convey a conflicting message.

Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark recognize their on-air personas as their "front stage selves," which align with Goffman's theory. In Goffman's view, people operate on a social script, drawn from past experiences to guide behavior in social scenarios. Interactions are thus like a performance, seeking to reac ...

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Erving Goffman's Dramaturgical Theory of Social Interaction

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The "front stage self" is a concept from Erving Goffman's dramaturgical theory. It represents the persona or image that individuals consciously present to others in social interactions. This front stage self is like a performance on a stage, where people carefully manage their behavior, appearance, and communication to create a specific impression on their audience. It is the public-facing aspect of an individual's identity that is tailored to fit the expectations and norms of a particular social setting.
  • Impression management is the process of consciously or subconsciously shaping how others perceive a person, object, or event through controlling information in social interactions. It involves behaviors like providing explanations, making excuses, and conforming opinions to influence others' perceptions. This concept was first introduced by Erving Goffman in his work "The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life" and has since been widely studied in various fields like psychology, sociology, and corporate communication. Impression management can be seen in everyday situations, from face-to-face interactions to social media posts, where individuals strategically manage the impressions they give off to others.
  • "Face work" in social interactions involves managing one's public image and emotions to maintain social harmony and save face in various situations. It includes strategies like controlling facial expressions, gestures, and verbal responses to influence how others perceive you. This concept is central to Erving Goffman's dramaturgical theory, emphasizing the importance of impression management in everyday interactions. Face work helps individuals navigate social expectations and maintain positive relationships by presenting themselves in ways that align with societal norms.
  • A "social script" is a concept in sociology that suggests individuals follow predetermined patterns of behavior in social situations based on past experiences and societal norms. It's like having ...

Counterarguments

  • Goffman's dramaturgical approach may oversimplify complex social interactions by comparing them to theatrical performances, neglecting the spontaneous and unpredictable aspects of human behavior.
  • The theory might not account for genuine, authentic interactions where individuals are not consciously managing impressions or performing.
  • Some critics argue that the dramaturgical model is too individualistic and doesn't sufficiently consider the influence of societal structures and power dynamics on social interactions.
  • The emphasis on the "front stage self" could be seen as implying that individuals are always inauthentic in public, which may not be the case for everyone.
  • Goffman's theory may not fully explain interactions in digital and online contexts, where the lines between front stage and back stage are blurred.
  • The concept of a social script may not capture the creative and dynamic ways in which people negotiate and reinterpret social norms.
  • The focus on impression management might underplay the role of internal psychological states, such as emotions and thought ...

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Impression Management

The Concepts of "Front Stage" and "Backstage" Selves

The concepts of "front stage" and "backstage" selves are explored through the lens of Erving Goffman's theory as Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark discuss self-presentation in various social contexts including their podcast.

"Front Stage" Self: Curated Public Persona Adhering To Social Norms

Chuck Bryant addresses the notion of the "front stage" self when discussing how individuals present themselves in public, especially within his own experience on the podcast. Goffman's theory suggests that the "front stage" self is a curated persona that adheres to social norms and expectations. Bryant points out that through appearance and clothing, people often convey their social status or occupation, which is part of the "front stage" self.

Different "Front Stage" Selves For Work vs. Friends

Behaviors and interactions are almost performed second nature, as Bryant notes, in accordance with societal rules that uphold social order. Similarly, Clark and Bryant suggest that people exhibit different "front stage" selves in professional settings versus being with friends, highlighting the versatility of the personas we adopt depending on the situation.

For instance, adhering to social norms helps avoid appearing bizarre or threatening. An example of this would be acting nonchalantly after a public fall, to avoid disrupting social order, or modulating one's behavior when meeting a friend's parent. Bryant talks about having to 'turn on the Chuck' in performative circumstances, contrasting with a much more relaxed interaction with friends.

"Backstage" Self: The Authentic, Informal Self, Revealed Privately

The podcast discussion implies that the "backstage" self, which reflects one's more authentic, informal self, is revealed in private settings or when among close friends and family. Here, individuals might feel at ease and exhibit a more genuine version of themselves.

"Backstage" Self Is More Genuine

...

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The Concepts of "Front Stage" and "Backstage" Selves

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Erving Goffman's theory of symbolic interaction focuses on how individuals create and present their self-image in social interactions. He introduced the concepts of "front stage" and "backstage" selves to explain how people manage their public personas and private identities. Goffman's work emphasizes the theatrical nature of social life, viewing interactions as performances on a metaphorical stage. His ideas have had a significant impact on sociology, particularly in understanding the complexities of human behavior in everyday situations.
  • The "front stage" self represents the persona individuals present in public, adhering to social norms and expectations. It involves conscious self-presentation to maintain a particular image. In contrast, the "backstage" self reflects a more authentic, informal self revealed in private settings or among close friends and family. This distinction highlights how individuals navigate between different versions of themselves based on the social context.
  • Self-presentation in social contexts involves how individuals intentionally or unintentionally convey information about themselves to others. It includes aspects like behavior, appearance, and communication, all of which contribute to shaping the image others perceive. People often adjust their self-presentation based on the social situation, aiming to create specific impressions or maintain social harmony. Understanding self-presentation helps in navigating social interactions and managing relationships effectively.
  • Maintaining social order through behavior modulation involves adjusting one's actions and expressions to align with societal norms and expectations. This adaptation helps prevent disruptions in social interactions and ensures harmony within a given social context. By consciously moderating behavior, individuals aim to avoid causing discomfort or confusion to others, contributing to the smooth functioning of social situations. Adhering to established behavioral norms aids in fostering predictability and mutual understanding among individuals in various social settings.
  • The relationship between genuineness and sel ...

Counterarguments

  • The distinction between "front stage" and "backstage" selves may oversimplify the complexity of human identity and behavior, as individuals often exhibit a spectrum of behaviors rather than two distinct personas.
  • The idea that the "backstage" self is more genuine could be challenged by the notion that all forms of self-presentation, even in private, are influenced by social norms and personal history, and thus no self is entirely authentic.
  • The concept of a "true self" present in all social interactions can be contested by postmodern perspectives that argue the self is fluid and constantly constructed through language and interaction, without a core essence.
  • The assertion that adhering to social norms helps avoid appearing bizarre or threatening does not account for cultural diversity and the fact that what is considered normal or bizarre varies greatly across different societies and subcultures.
  • The implication that the "backstage" self is a more relaxed state with lower stakes might not consider the pressure and anxiety some individuals feel in private settings due to personal or societal exp ...

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Impression Management

The Factors and Techniques Involved In Impression Management

In a discussion on the nuances of impression management, Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark address the strategies and considerations one must take into account while crafting their public persona.

Impression Management: Relevance, Goal Value, and Perception Gap

Techniques to Craft Desired Impressions

Impression management is about the deliberate construction of identity to influence how others perceive us. It involves highlighting certain aspects of our authentic self that resonate with the image we aim to project. This selection process, known as target value, is guided by what we believe others expect or desire from us. When crafting an impression, it's also vital to consider role constraints, ensuring that the presented self matches the general expectations of the social roles we are fulfilling.

Furthermore, it is essential for facial expressions to align with verbal communication to convey a consistent and clear message. Impression motivation derives from the relevance of one’s image in achieving a desired goal, such as landing a job, the personal value placed on that goal, and the perceived discrepancy between one's current image and the ideal projection. This perceived gap informs the extent to which an individual feels compelled to adjust their behavior to better align with the desired impression.

Techniques for creating positive impressions include flattery and ingratiation, as well as conforming to expectations and exercising emotional restraint. Being strategic about the display of emotions in accordance with social cues—a skill involving cognitive empathy and self-monitoring—is key in managing impressions successfully. Basking in reflected glory, or associating with esteemed others, is encouraged, while downward comparison, which involves denigrating others to boost self-image, is discouraged.

Impression Management: Automatic, Subconscious, or Deliberate Effort

Bryant and Clark highlight that impression management can range from conscious strategies to automatic or subconscious behaviors. Not everyone has a natural aptitude for the social instincts required in certain situations like being polite in a job interview; others might need to practice or learn these behaviors deliberately.

Impression management can be a constant undercurrent in our social interactions, whether we are conscious of it or not. An example they mention is the instinctual behavior of checking if others noticed us after a fall, or the automatic generation of an excuse to cover embarrassment—the ...

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The Factors and Techniques Involved In Impression Management

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In impression management, target value is the concept of selecting specific aspects of oneself that align with the desired image to be projected. It involves understanding what others expect or desire from us and adjusting our behavior to meet those expectations. Target value guides the deliberate construction of identity to influence how others perceive us accurately. This process helps individuals craft impressions that resonate with the image they aim to portray.
  • Role constraints in crafting impressions involve aligning the presented self with the expectations associated with the social roles one occupies. This means adjusting behaviors and expressions to match the societal norms and expectations linked to a particular role. By considering role constraints, individuals ensure that the image they project is consistent with the role they are fulfilling in a given context. Failure to adhere to role constraints can lead to discrepancies between one's perceived image and the societal expectations, potentially affecting how others perceive them.
  • Impression motivation is the drive behind managing how others perceive us, influenced by the importance of the goal we seek to achieve and the perceived difference between our current image and the ideal one we aim to project. Perceived image gaps represent the discrepancy between how we are currently seen and how we want to be seen, influencing the extent to which we adjust our behavior to bridge this difference. These concepts play a crucial role in shaping our actions and decisions in social interactions, guiding us in crafting the desired impressions for various situations.
  • Basking in reflected glory involves associating oneself with esteemed others to enhance one's own image. On the other hand, downward comparison is the act of denigrating others to elevate one's self-image. Both strategies are used in impression management to shape how others perceive us in social contexts.
  • Automatic or subconscious behaviors in impression management involve actions or responses that occur without conscious awareness or deliberate effort. These behaviors can be instinctual, such as checking if others noticed us after a fall, or learned over time through repeated experiences. They may manifest as quick, reflexive reactions aimed at maintaining a favorable image or managing social perceptions without explicit intention. While some aspects of impression management may be automatic, they can also be influenced by past conditioning and societ ...

Counterarguments

  • While the text suggests that impression management is deliberate, some psychologists argue that much of our behavior is driven by unconscious motives and that we may not be as in control of our self-presentation as we think.
  • The concept of "target value" assumes that individuals have a clear understanding of others' expectations, which may not always be the case due to the complexity and variability of social interactions.
  • The emphasis on aligning facial expressions with verbal communication may not account for cultural differences in expression and communication styles.
  • The idea that impression motivation is driven by a perceived image gap may be too simplistic, as it doesn't consider intrinsic motivations for self-expression that are unrelated to external perceptions.
  • Techniques like flattery and ingratiation could be seen as manipulative and may not always lead to genuine or long-lasting positive impressions.
  • The text discourages downward comparison, but some psychological theories suggest that this can sometimes have a self-protective function and can be a natural coping mechanism.
  • The assertion that impression management can be as natural as breathing may overlook the significant effort and stress that many individuals experience in social situations.
  • The discussion of impression man ...

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Impression Management

Role of Authenticity and Stigma in Impression Management

Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark explore the intricate relationship between authenticity, stigma, and impression management, drawing on Erving Goffman's views that the self is selectively revealed and managed in social interactions.

Impression Management Seen As Inauthentic, but Goffman Argues the "Authentic" Self Is Selectively Revealed

Conversations in the podcast suggest that while impression management is often viewed as inauthentic, it is a necessary part of social interaction, which aligns with Goffman's perspective that the "authentic" self is always selectively revealed. Bryant notes that in real life, unlike in drama, unexpected behaviors that violate social norms are not appreciated, while deviations from the norm might actually represent a person’s true self.

The hosts convey that impression management isn't just about altering oneself to fit in, but should also consider what authentic aspects one possesses that can be used to impress others.

Impression Management and the Complexity of "True Self"

The discussion indicates that impression management behaviors are rational responses to societal expectations, underscoring the complexity of the "true self" in different contexts. Impression construction is based on authenticity since authenticity is valued, but managing impressions also has an inevitable element of artifice. The conversation alludes to the unsustainable nature of keeping up a lie and compares it to a sitcom plot.

Moreover, suppressing emotions as part of impression management isn't necessarily inauthentic but may be a strategic presentation of self. Even if practiced unconsciously, impression management does not equate to inauthenticity, according to Clark and Bryant.

"Stigmatized Individuals Engaging In Impression Management to Avoid Discrimination"

Stigmatized Identity Covering Raises Ethical Concerns About Diversity Accommodations

Bryant discusses how stigmatized individuals often engage in impression management to avoid discrimination. He references Goffman’s argument that belonging to stigmatized categories like mental illness or being unhoused involves managing impressions to mitig ...

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Role of Authenticity and Stigma in Impression Management

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Erving Goffman, a prominent sociologist, introduced the concept of impression management, where individuals strategically present themselves to others. He believed that people selectively reveal aspects of their identity to control how they are perceived in social interactions. Goffman's theory suggests that individuals navigate social situations by managing the impressions they create, emphasizing the role of performance and presentation in shaping interpersonal relationships. This perspective highlights the dynamic and strategic nature of self-presentation in everyday interactions.
  • In social interactions, the idea of the "authentic" self being selectively revealed means that individuals choose which aspects of themselves to show based on the situation. This concept suggests that people present different facets of their personality depending on the context, audience, and social norms. It highlights the dynamic nature of identity presentation, where individuals navigate between revealing genuine aspects of themselves and adapting to social expectations. This notion challenges the notion of a fixed, unchanging "true self" and emphasizes the fluidity of self-presentation in different social settings.
  • Authenticity, stigma, and impression management are interconnected in social interactions. Individuals navigate societal expectations by managing impressions, which can involve selectively revealing aspects of their authentic selves. Stigmatized individuals may engage in impression management to mitigate discrimination, highlighting how societal stigma influences the presentation of one's authentic self. The complex interplay between authenticity, stigma, and impression management underscores the nuanced ways individuals navigate social norms and expectations.
  • In social interactions, unexpected behaviors that go against established social norms can lead to discomfort or disapproval from others. Society often expects individuals to adhere to certain behavioral standards, and deviations from these norms can be perceived as disruptive or inappropriate. This societal preference for conformity and predictability can make unexpected behaviors that violate social norms less appreciated in real-life interactions. Such behaviors may challenge the status quo or disrupt the smooth flow of social interactions, leading to potential negative reactions from others.
  • In the context of impression management, general impression management involves adjusting one's behavior to fit so ...

Counterarguments

  • Impression management can sometimes be seen as a skillful adaptation rather than inauthenticity, as it requires a deep understanding of social cues and contexts.
  • Some may argue that unexpected behaviors that violate social norms can be appreciated in real life when they lead to positive change or reflect personal integrity.
  • The concept of a "true self" can be contested as some believe the self is constantly evolving and context-dependent, making the idea of a static true self misleading.
  • There is a perspective that impression management is not just about rational responses to societal expectations but can also be a form of self-expression or art.
  • The notion that keeping up a lie is unsustainable may be challenged by pointing out that some individuals or institutions successfully maintain falsehoods for extended periods.
  • The strategy of suppressing emotions in impression management could be criticized for potentially leading to psychological distress or inauthentic relationships.
  • The idea that impression management does not equate to inauthenticity might be contested by those who believe that any form of self-editing is inherently inauthentic.
  • The view that stigmatized individuals engage in ...

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Impression Management

Implications of Impression Management for Marginalized Groups

The transcript reflects a discussion on how impression management plays a significant role in the lives of marginalized individuals, although it does not provide specific details on their unique experiences.

Goffman on Social Norms and Stigmatization

Josh Clark notes that Erving Goffman had real sympathy for people on the fringes of society, which relates to the broader understanding of the pressures and motivations for marginalized individuals to manage impressions. However, the transcript does not delve into Goffman's specific views on social norms and stigmatization.

Impression Management: The Psychological Tax of Code-Switching for Marginalized Individuals

Although not directly addressed in the transcript, Chuck Bryant's anecdotes hint at the psychological effort required from those who need to manage impressions or code-switch in social interactions. He illustrates the psychological tax of impression management by referencing how grown men might change their behavior as children to be more socially accepted, which still affects them today.

Challenging Norms and Building Empathy to Address Impression Management's Impact on Marginalized Groups

The conversation between Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant touches on the discomfort caused by gender-fluid individuals violating social scripts. They discuss how societal norms tend to remain static unless actively challenged and how adhering to norms signals safety to others, a form of impression management that ...

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Implications of Impression Management for Marginalized Groups

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Goffman did have sympathy for marginalized individuals, it's important to consider that his work was a product of its time and may not fully capture the complexities of modern identity politics and intersectionality.
  • The psychological effort of code-switching and impression management, while significant, can also be seen as a skill set that provides marginalized individuals with unique insights and adaptability in various social contexts.
  • Impression management is not only a burden but can also be a strategic choice and a form of empowerment, allowing individuals to control how they are perceived and navigate social structures.
  • Societal norms are constantly evolving, and while challenging them is important, it's also true that some norms may change due to broader cultural shifts rather than active confrontation.
  • The prevalence of code-switching in marginalized communities could be interpreted as a reflection of cultural richness and versatility, rather than solely a response to external pressures.
  • Co ...

Actionables

  • You can reflect on your own behavior in different social settings to become more aware of your impression management tactics. Start a journal where you note down the different roles you play in various contexts, like being a parent at home, a professional at work, or a friend in social settings. This self-reflection can help you understand how you adapt your behavior and whether these adaptations align with your authentic self.
  • Develop a personal "code-switching" awareness by observing when and why you change your communication style. For instance, pay attention to how you might speak differently with your boss compared to how you talk with a close friend. Recognize the triggers that cause you to switch codes, and consider if these changes are due to a desire to fit in or a response to societal expectations.
  • Create a support group with friends or colleagues where you can discu ...

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