Selfpresentation

Self-presentation is the process by which individuals influence others’ perceptions of them through choices about appearance, behavior, speech, and conveyed information in social interactions and mediated communications. It involves deciding what to reveal, how to act, and how to align with or diverge from social norms to achieve personal or relational goals.

The concept draws on dramaturgical theory, notably Erving Goffman’s idea of front-stage and back-stage behavior and impression management. People tailor their messages to specific audiences, anticipate judgments, and seek credibility, status, or resources. Common strategies, often described in impression-management literature, include self-promotion (highlighting abilities and successes), ingratiation (cultivating liking), exemplification (displaying moral virtue), supplication (appearing in need of help), and intimidation (projecting power). Authenticity remains debated, with some arguing for alignment with one’s true self and others emphasizing strategic adaptability for social advantage.

Online environments have intensified self-presentation dynamics, featuring curated profiles, selective disclosure, and tone management. Social media platforms amplify feedback loops, visibility, and evaluative pressure, influencing self-concept and behavior. Self-presentation operates across contexts such as job interviews, dating, professional networking, and political communication, with cultural norms shaping acceptable strategies and levels of disclosure.

Critiques highlight risks of inauthenticity, social comparison, and stress when impression management becomes pervasive or misaligned with real needs. Research methods include experiments, surveys, content analysis of profiles, and discourse analyses of interactions. Overall, self-presentation is a central aspect of social life, facilitating cooperation and opportunity while presenting challenges to authenticity and well-being.