Goffman's dramaturgical approach
Goffman analysed social interaction as theatrical performance: people manage impressions (present 'front' self), maintain interactions through tact, use props and settings.
Real World
A job applicant wears a smart suit, maintains eye contact, and rehearses confident answers — front-stage impression management — while venting nerves to a friend beforehand: the backstage self.
Exam Focus
Distinguish front stage from back stage clearly; examiners reward precise use of Goffman's own terminology over paraphrase.
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