Self Perception

I chose to monitor myself in church and when I was attending a party with some friends last Saturday. I found that my self-presentation in those situations was altered almost completely. Also I found myself using impression management during each activity in order to choose peoples perception of me. Goffman’s idea of dramaturgy is how our society continues its function. While at the party I found myself engaged in the role of the “carefree party girl,” but the next morning my role was the complete opposite as I was engulfed in the role of the “perfect Christian.” Socialization is the reason we play the roles that are almost assigned to us by the people in our lives and the choices we make. Growing up in a Christian household I attend church three times a week and also participate in other church related activities on a regular basis. These facts both being true my relationships outside of church and my actions would not reflect so. Knowing I was to attend a party Saturday night I dressed accordingly, short white high waisted shorts, a black crop top, and high top converse. My attire is what is found appropriate for a social gathering of the sort. Once I arrived at the party with my friends I immediately engulfed myself in my “care free party girl” role. Getting overly excited when seeing girls I don’t even like, surrounding myself with who I feel I fit in best with, and engaging in activities that were certainly not what I consider the right thing to do. I also found that once I arrived at the party (the front stage) my role became more than natural for me to play. I found it interesting that everyone else there was also playing a certain role. There were the teens who used drugs, the heavy drinkers, and of course the better than everyone group of teens. Being in the audience for a while I observed the actions of others and I was able to point out each role that was being played. The next morning however when I attended church my role immediately changed