Identity Theory And Identity Management Theory

What is Identity Management? In sociological terms it is communication strategy which is goal-oriented. It operates on both the conscious and subconscious level; communicators attempt to control the impressions of other people about themselves. This is achieved by governing and effecting various impressions designed to control social interactions. It is the outward facing or presenting self, in which one manipulates their perceived image for others to discern. The concept of identity management can also effect other arenas such as professional communication in the work place and school. Similarly its effects can be perceived in the larger stage of public relations for important persons and celebrities. Identity management theory was

It is understood that the identity management theory mentions Goffman 's contributions to social interaction numerous time since he has been the foremost cited sociologist from his research and communication studies. In understanding identity management is important to explore the concepts of the “Perceived Self” (Adler, Proctor II) and the “Presenting Self” (Adler, Proctor II). Among the myriad identities which one possesses through life, one must not overlook cultural and relational identities, as these are of primary importance in identity management as well. The presenting self is the face on shows to the outside world; one may have many facets to their identity. Whereas the perceived self is rather much of a constant, yes it is mutable over time with experience, but it basically remains in a static state for long periods of time. If the communicator is capable of maintaining the facets of the outwardly presenting self is strongly tied to his or her interpersonal

It is therefore important that his many contributions be acknowledged in any research regarding identity management. Six essays comprise Goffman 's book, with the first essay exploring a communicator’s presenting-self while engaged in communications with other individuals. He expounded that the presenting-self image that is portrayed during interactions is not set in stone and yet has great social identification impact. The identity the communicator acquires in a social environment is then expected to bear fruit in the future. “Society is organized on the principle that any individual who possesses certain social characteristics has a moral right to expect that others will value and treat him in an appropriate way.” (Goffman) There are complications in modifying the presenting-self in a social context, as this may change the perception of how one feels about themselves as a person. What Goffman was trying to imply was that sometimes it is wisest to refrain from too much self-disclosure in a social context as others may view this in a disagreeable