Sociology and Criminology

Identity & Interaction

Module code: L4061B
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

This module explores microsociological theories of the self, social identity and social interaction, drawing particularly on Symbolic Interactionism and Goffman's dramaturgical theory. The aim is to show how the ostensibly private world of individual selfhood is created and shaped by social processes, culture and interaction order. The first half of the module examines different approaches to understanding identity: from the philosophy of mind and personhood, through theories of group membership and categorisation; narrative and biographical models of the 'storied self'; performativity; and poststructuralist ideas about identity fragmentation, multiplicity and the discursive constitution of subjectivities.

The second part of the module looks in detail at two related theories of social interaction - Symbolic Interactionism and Goffman's dramaturgy - and their empirical applications, using illustrative examples from published studies. Topics covered here include: role-making, taking, play and conflict; meanings, gestures and symbols; strangers and outsiders; Goffman's theatrical analogy; behaviour in public places (etiquette, civility and interaction rituals); deviant and stigmatised identities; the negotiated order of institutional life; and secrecy, lies, betrayal and deception. The module will be assessed by a 6000 word essay, in the form of either a critical commentary on the social formation of one type of social identity or a reflexive portfolio of self-identity.

Module learning outcomes

  • Understand the key principles and concepts of the theoretical perspectives of Symbolic Interactionism and Goffman’s dramaturgy.     
  • Demonstrate an in-depth, analytical and critically engaged knowledge of these theoretical models, with reference to published studies.   
  • Apply the theories of Symbolic Interactionism and/or Goffman’s dramaturgy to a substantive topic or empirical example
  • Critically evaluate the contributions made by Symbolic Interactionism and/or Goffman’s dramaturgical theory to the study of self-identity and interaction.