Iowa: 38 Wisconsin: 16

Presentation of Self Impression Management

Presentation of Self We have multiple selves We choose the self that is going to elicit the most positive/desired outcome – Example: Job interview

Managing Impressions We are highly motivated to “sell” a particular image of ourselves Will strategically hide or highlight various aspects of our selves to gain desired outcome – Text example: Illusion of youth – Politicians: Appeal to middle class Joe Six Pack Hockey Mom “My neighborhood”

Erving Goffman— Dramaturgy Front stage: area where people maintain appropriate impressions during interactions Back stage: area where people allow themselves to violate their appropriate impression management performances – Example: Professors

Spoiled Identities Embarrassment: when our identity is suddenly discredited in front of others

Remedies for Spoiled Identities Account: attempt to explain away embarrassing behavior – “Refs were unfair” – “Player X was injured” Disclaimer: statement made prior to behavior to prevent complaints – “I’m not racist, but…” Cooling out: persuading someone who has lost face to accept a lesser identity – “You’re still #1 in Wisconsin!”