Which theory focuses on the way individuals present themselves in social situations, distinguishing between the front stage and back stage?

The correct answer centers on Goffman's Presentation of Self Theory, which specifically explores how individuals perform and convey their identities in social interactions. Erving Goffman introduced the concepts of "front stage" and "back stage" to illustrate the different environments in which individuals operate while engaging with others.

In the front stage, individuals are aware that they are being observed, and they adjust their behavior accordingly to present themselves in a favorable light. This is akin to actors performing in front of an audience, where the presentation is crafted to create a particular impression. On the other hand, in the back stage, individuals can relax and be themselves without the pressure of an audience. Here, the "performances" are less about impression management and more about authenticity.

This theory highlights the dynamic nature of social interactions and how context can affect behavior and identity presentation. While symbolic interactionism provides a broader framework for understanding social interactions and meanings, and role theory examines how societal roles influence behavior, it is Goffman's specific focus on presentation and the distinction between different social contexts that make his theory the best fit for this question. Social constructionism, while related in discussing how realities are socially constructed, does not delve into the performative aspects emphasized in Goffman’s