Backstage in Sociology

Using the dramaturgical model of social interaction, Goffman defines social interaction as a performance in which people use various methods and strategies to communicate their intentions and personal characteristics. These methods may include setting, clothing, words, and nonverbal actions to create a certain impression. In sociology, this type of behavior is known as impression management. Goffman makes a distinction between front-stage and back-stage behavior, which describes how people use their social skills to create an impact on others. The front-stage actions are the ones that are visible to an audience, while backstage behaviors are not.

The concept of stage theory refers to the idea that elements move through distinct stages over time. Each stage has a specific characteristic that distinguishes it from the next. Several disciplines have developed different theories and concepts based on this theory. Everett Hughes, who first introduced the term in the 1940s, argued that the idea of staged societies applies to many social phenomena, including the Olympic Games. For example, athletes competing for their country at the Olympics are performing their identity.

In addition to the role of actors, backstage societies are also influenced by the dramaturgical perspective. This approach emphasizes how people interact with others and their contexts. In dramaturgical societies, the people interact with each other in a specific way, and the actor or actress aims to improve their performance. While this may sound strange, it is the basis for the theory of sociology. So what does backstage in sociology mean?