Final answer:
The attempt to influence how others perceive us is known as impression management, a practice commonly utilized in both personal and professional contexts, including on social media platforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The attempt by people to get others to see them in a positive light is called impression management. This concept is especially relevant in the context of social media, where individuals may craft their online personas by selectively sharing content that aligns with their ideal selves. Impression management encompasses actions and strategies used to shape how we are perceived by others, whether through the curation of a social media profile, the way we behave in professional settings, or the manner in which groups attempt to influence public opinion.
Impression management is not only limited to individuals but can also be seen in various social and institutional contexts. Examples include the way companies use marketing to influence consumer perception or how political leaders may engage in personality cults to maintain a particular public image. This behavior reflects a natural human desire to elicit positive responses and be viewed favorably by others, which can have tangible benefits such as promotions, establishing alliances, and overall personal and professional success.