Final answer:
Impression management is equivalent to self-monitoring, where individuals consciously regulate their behaviors to make a favorable impression, especially in a professional setting to achieve positive outcomes. d) Self-monitoring .
Step-by-step explanation:
The direct answer to the question about impression management is d) Self-monitoring.
Impression management, or making a good impression by being consistent in our behavior, can be best understood as a form of self-monitoring. This is the process where individuals regulate their behavior to make a favorable impression on others. It is a conscious effort to control and direct one's own behaviors and actions in a social context in order to be viewed positively by others. This can be particularly crucial in a professional setting, such as when starting a new job where one's abilities, team fit, and potential as a team player are scrutinized. Effective impression management can lead to positive outcomes like promotions, alliances, and bonuses, reflecting a personal investment in how one is perceived. Props and settings, such as a judge's robe and gavel in court, are also used to reinforce the desired impression. The consistency in behavior and the use of props to control how one is perceived are key elements in successful impression management.