Impression Management
THEORIES OF IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT
Managing impressions has gained so much popularity that a lot of behaviorists have developed theories of self-presentation. All these theories agree that we present ourselves depending on the situation and other’s perception about us. Some of these are as follows.
Symbolic Interactionism: The theory was presented by C.H.Cooley and G.H.Mead. This theory stresses that participants in any social interaction try to take other’s role and see themselves as others see them.
Presentation of the Self: This theory presented by Erving Goffman says that the social interaction in daily life is a theatrical performance. Every person selects a visage as a background for social interaction with others.
Situated Identities: This theory says that for each kind of social setting there lies a pattern of social behavior which conveys an identity. And to adopt that identity is particularly appropriate for the setting.
TACTICS OF SELF PRESENTATION:
There are situations where it becomes necessary that we maintain performance in order not to look bad or awkward. Different tactics of impression management have been identified by Jones and Pittman (1982). The following tactics can be adopted. o Ingratiation: The main aim of an ingratiator is being likeable. This involves complimenting another person or indulging in flattery with certain amount of credibility and honesty. In this strategy, behaviors are consciously designed to influence a particular person which involves the attractiveness of one's personal qualities. It also involves conforming to another’s view point. As we like those people who think or act like us therefore we present ourselves in the way we can be appreciated. o Intimidation: the main aim of an intimidator is to control others and exercise power. In this strategy the person stimulates fear among others to get the work done. He does not care about being likeable at all. o Self- promotion: the main aim of a self promoter is to
Managing impressions has gained so much popularity that a lot of behaviorists have developed theories of self-presentation. All these theories agree that we present ourselves depending on the situation and other’s perception about us. Some of these are as follows.
Symbolic Interactionism: The theory was presented by C.H.Cooley and G.H.Mead. This theory stresses that participants in any social interaction try to take other’s role and see themselves as others see them.
Presentation of the Self: This theory presented by Erving Goffman says that the social interaction in daily life is a theatrical performance. Every person selects a visage as a background for social interaction with others.
Situated Identities: This theory says that for each kind of social setting there lies a pattern of social behavior which conveys an identity. And to adopt that identity is particularly appropriate for the setting.
TACTICS OF SELF PRESENTATION:
There are situations where it becomes necessary that we maintain performance in order not to look bad or awkward. Different tactics of impression management have been identified by Jones and Pittman (1982). The following tactics can be adopted. o Ingratiation: The main aim of an ingratiator is being likeable. This involves complimenting another person or indulging in flattery with certain amount of credibility and honesty. In this strategy, behaviors are consciously designed to influence a particular person which involves the attractiveness of one's personal qualities. It also involves conforming to another’s view point. As we like those people who think or act like us therefore we present ourselves in the way we can be appreciated. o Intimidation: the main aim of an intimidator is to control others and exercise power. In this strategy the person stimulates fear among others to get the work done. He does not care about being likeable at all. o Self- promotion: the main aim of a self promoter is to