Goffman

According to Goffman, we are all just actors on a stage reading/acting from socially prescribed (and proscribed) scripts. This is especially true when we take on different roles. List two different roles you take as an individual. How do these roles guide your behavior when you are in/around certain situations, places, or people? Are these roles in tension with each other, and if so, how does this tension matter for your behavior and the way others perceive you?

Full Answer Section

These two roles are somewhat in tension with each other. For example, when I am at work, I need to be able to focus and concentrate. However, when I am with my friends, I want to be able to relax and have fun. Sometimes, it can be difficult to switch between these two roles.

This tension can also affect the way others perceive me. For example, some people may see me as a serious and focused person at work, while others may see me as a fun and outgoing person outside of work. This can be confusing for some people, and it can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.

However, I believe that it is important to be able to maintain different roles in life. Each role has its own unique benefits and challenges. By being able to switch between different roles, I am able to experience different aspects of life and connect with different people.

Here are some specific examples of how my two roles guide my behavior in certain situations:

  • When I am at work, I am more likely to dress professionally and speak formally. I am also more likely to be focused on my work and avoid distractions.
  • When I am with my friends, I am more likely to dress casually and speak informally. I am also more likely to be relaxed and have fun.

For example, if I am at a work meeting, I will be dressed in business attire and I will focus on the topics being discussed. However, if I am at a party with my friends, I will be dressed more casually and I will be more likely to socialize and have fun.

Overall, I believe that being able to maintain different roles in life is a valuable skill. It allows me to experience different aspects of life and connect with different people.

Sample Answer

Two different roles I take as an individual are:

  • Software engineer: As a software engineer, I am expected to be technical, analytical, and creative. I am also expected to be able to work independently and as part of a team. When I am at work, I focus on these qualities and try to be as productive and professional as possible.
  • Friend: As a friend, I am expected to be supportive, caring, and understanding. I am also expected to be able to have fun and enjoy myself. When I am with my friends, I let loose and relax. I focus on being myself and having a good time.