Final answer:
Erving Goffman developed dramaturgy as a theory of socialization, comparing social interaction to a theatrical performance. Socialization is influenced by societal factors and involves conforming to gender, racial, and class-related norms. Different theoretical paradigms approach socialization differently, viewing it as crucial for societal development and cultural transmission or as a perpetuation of inequality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erving Goffman's theory of socialization, known as dramaturgy, likens social interaction to a theatrical performance. Goffman argues that individuals are actors who switch roles depending on the situation they are in, and they use 'impression management' to present themselves to others in a desired way. For example, we behave differently around coworkers, grandparents, and blind dates. Goffman's ideas expand on the concept of the looking-glass self by Charles Cooley, who believed that our sense of self is shaped by how we think others perceive us.
Furthermore, sociologists recognize that socialization is influenced by societal factors such as race, social class, and religion. For instance, poor families emphasize obedience and conformity, while wealthy families emphasize creativity and judgment. This socialization process reproduces the existing class system. Additionally, individuals are socialized to conform to gender norms, racial perceptions, and class-related behaviors.
Sociologists also study how individuals identify and understand social events through the concept of frames. Frames provide behavior templates and norms for different situations. For example, when entering a restaurant, we have a frame that dictates appropriate behavior, such as not wearing pajamas or throwing food. Socialization is approached differently by various theoretical paradigms. Structural functionalists view socialization as essential for societal development and cultural transmission, while conflict theorists argue that it perpetuates inequality. Interactionists focus on face-to-face exchanges and symbolic communication in the socialization process.