Final answer:
Characterization is making a role unique and interesting, and is related to Goffman's concept of dramaturgy and impression management. It varies depending on social context and may involve imitation or the adoption of traits from the dominant culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
​​Characterization is the process of making a role unique, individual, and interesting. This concept is closely related to sociology and the study of human social behavior. Notably, sociologist Erving Goffman presented the idea of dramaturgy, suggesting that we perform different roles in life much like actors on a stage, using impression management to present ourselves to others in a particular way. Our role performance varies depending on the social context and the audience. For example, the way a person behaves around coworkers may differ significantly from their behavior around family or friends. The process of characterization can also be seen in the way individuals take on the characteristics of the dominant culture, a phenomenon known as cultural assimilation. Moreover, in broader social contexts, societies undergo structural differentiation and specialization, which can be viewed as a form of societal characterization where social structures become more complex and varied.
Furthermore, impersonation and mimicry are parts of this process as we learn and adapt social skills. By imitating others, individuals can develop new roles and characters, whether in social situations, storytelling, or theatrical performances. Each character we create or role we assume comes with its own set of attributes and traits that distinguish it from our true selves or from other roles we may play.