Dramaturgical analysis compares social interactions to what?

Dramaturgical analysis is a sociological perspective developed by Erving Goffman, which compares social interactions to a theatrical presentation. This analogy suggests that individuals in social settings perform roles much like actors in a play, using various techniques and behaviors to present themselves to others.

In this view, every social interaction is akin to a performance where individuals have specific roles and scripts, utilizing setting, appearance, and manner to convey particular messages and emotions. The concept emphasizes how people manage impressions and navigate their social environments, shaping their identities based on the expectations of different audiences. This aligns with the structure of a theatrical performance, where the context and settings play crucial roles in how the "performers" are perceived.

Understanding social interactions through this lens allows for a deeper exploration of how individuals construct their identities and the social dynamics that influence these behaviors, emphasizing the performative aspects of everyday life.