What does impression management involve?

Impression management involves the effort to present oneself favorably in social interactions. This concept, primarily derived from the work of sociologist Erving Goffman, emphasizes how individuals consciously or unconsciously curate their appearance, behavior, and communication in various contexts to influence the perceptions of others.

For instance, in a job interview, a candidate might dress formally and highlight their qualifications to create a positive impression on the interviewer. This act of shaping one’s public persona is critical to social interactions, as it affects how individuals are received in different environments, such as work, school, or social gatherings.

The other options touch on relevant social processes but do not capture the essence of impression management as accurately. Influencing group dynamics is more about leadership and social influence rather than personal presentation. Manipulating social norms involves broader societal behaviors rather than focusing on individual self-presentation. Emotional intelligence, while important for understanding and managing emotions, does not specifically pertain to the strategic presentation of oneself in social contexts.