Dramaturgy is a sociological concept that stems from Symbolic Interactionism, which was coined by George Herbert Mead. Symbolic interaction relies on the perspective of symbolic meaning through interaction with society and with one’s self. Dramaturgy is another aspect of this and was developed by Erving Goffman. Goffman explains this concept as a theatrical act that explains human interaction and behavior with one another. According to Goffman, Dramaturgy is an act that an individual takes part in subconsciously. They act in a way that they believe is acceptable in front of specific people such as, friends versus boss. This can also be explained as impression management. As an individual we alter our identities in order to control what others
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It’s a common conception that one is to respect their boss because they hold their pay check and their opportunities to climb the work ladder. In our front stage we believe that we are to be courteous, generous, positive, and even remain motivated in front of our boss. The individual in any work environment is somewhat intimidated by their boss or manager. They wish to impress their boss with their work ethic and abilities to handle multiple tasks. During this front stage, the individual may invite their boss out to lunch, ask about their day, or compliment their appearance. Another way they may impress their boss is by dressing in the appropriate attire for the work environment, showing positive representation for the company. All of these interactions are a way for the employee to manipulate their boss’ perception of themselves. However, while their boss is not around, the employee may loosen their appearance and discuss with fellow employees about their distaste for the boss. This would be an example of the back stage concept of dramaturgy. The individual changes his behavior based on his audience. If an employee is outside of his work audience, he may go home and get drunk, smoke, or even dance to country. There is no way to determine what an individual does in his back stage unless you are a part of that
It’s a common conception that one is to respect their boss because they hold their pay check and their opportunities to climb the work ladder. In our front stage we believe that we are to be courteous, generous, positive, and even remain motivated in front of our boss. The individual in any work environment is somewhat intimidated by their boss or manager. They wish to impress their boss with their work ethic and abilities to handle multiple tasks. During this front stage, the individual may invite their boss out to lunch, ask about their day, or compliment their appearance. Another way they may impress their boss is by dressing in the appropriate attire for the work environment, showing positive representation for the company. All of these interactions are a way for the employee to manipulate their boss’ perception of themselves. However, while their boss is not around, the employee may loosen their appearance and discuss with fellow employees about their distaste for the boss. This would be an example of the back stage concept of dramaturgy. The individual changes his behavior based on his audience. If an employee is outside of his work audience, he may go home and get drunk, smoke, or even dance to country. There is no way to determine what an individual does in his back stage unless you are a part of that