Identity construction in social media as part of Goffman’s theory of self-presentation: A research on Instagram

This study is focused on Instagram as a means of self-presentation and identity construction of the university students. Today Instagram is used for getting identity and status, and it is one of the most preferred social media platforms. Identity construction in social media is examined in this study in the context of Goffman's theory of self-presentation. The semi-structured interview data on the use of Instagram and identity construction by the Gelişim University students is evaluated for this aim. It is seen that social media is adopted by users as a means of representation in the production of self and digital identity. Social media provides individuals with the possibility of free expression as an alternative to their daily life communication in terms of sharing their views and getting information. The data in this study was gathered by the in-depth interview technique. The in-depth interviews were conducted among the students of Gelişim University Vocational School. In this framework, the interview was conducted with 6 female and 4 male students. In the interview, 9 main questions were asked to the students. The data is analyzed on a descriptive ground. According to the research findings it is anticipated that the digital identities constructed in Instagram and social media, in general, will be used individually and will be designed distinctively for every individual by replacing identities in the daily life. It is observed that the persons who are not able to present the identity they want in real life, feel more emancipated in the social media by presenting their ideal selves. It is seen that the shares made on Instagram reflect the individual's personality, desires, expectations and impression management.