The rise of social media has created a digital stage where individuals meticulously craft and present their identities. From emergencies to vacations, professionals to social media influencers, folks are digital-casting their wins, accolades, skills and everyday life routines, 24 hours a day. This remarkable phenomenon creates a challenging set of questions regarding authenticity. It generates alarm about how this may contribute to a “culture of narcissism” and deteriorate mental health.
Erving Goffman’s self-presentation theory can help explain this behavior. The theory ultimately asserts that people consciously or unconsciously hone specific tactics and practices to control the impressions they cast on others in social interactions. This impression management is an important part of self-presentation, shaping the way people relate and present themselves to others.
Social media/social networking sites have clearly emerged as the primary spaces for this performative self-presentation. Pros, corporate execs, genius entrepreneurs and thought leaders all leverage these platforms and channels to create the virtuous appearances of success, credibility and expertise. They are selective about their online portrayals, showcasing accolades and the professional success of their personal lives.
This curated self-presentation is adding to what Christopher Lasch once called the “culture of narcissism.” Lasch contended that too much self-approval doesn’t just stifle true virtues, but creates a fictitious life. The unrealistic expectation to curate a flawless online persona leaves room for disingenuousness, which can threaten the ability to connect authentically.
"The dissonance between the real life and online identity can ruin self-esteem and overall mental health."
The impact of this dissonance between online persona and real life can be harmful. Individuals who feel pressure to maintain a flawless online image may experience anxiety, low self-esteem, and a decline in overall mental health.
It should be highlighted that not all scholars engage in this culture of online self-promotion. Many people do not want to share the upheaval in their day-to-day lives on social media, and some don’t have access to these platforms. It’s understandable that people are concerned about privacy. They may just desire deeper connections and find it exhausting to keep up with the expectations of an online presence.
The consequences of this digital self-portrait are profound. We know social media is an essential tool for connecting, creating community, and sharing the truth. It brings significant threats to authenticity and mental health. The burden of looking like you have everything together perpetuates an environment of comparison and not feeling good enough. This can distort real relationships and chip away at self-worth.
