week 1 research blog

Hallett applies Goffman’s ideas of deference and demeanor to an educational institution. He discussed both Goffman’s theory of the interaction order and Bourdieu’s theories of cultural capital and symbolic power to explain interactions at a local school, particularly focusing on the relationship between Mrs Kox(a principal who follows the rules and does everything ‘by the books’) and the teachers (who dislike her leadership style and her tough-lined approach). As Hallett argues, to acquire deference (the act of conveying appreciation to an individual), an individual must exhibit the appropriate demeanor (their appearance-the way you dress, act, look) towards others. For example, as Hallett argued, for the principal to acquire deference, she must treat her staff and students with respect. The principal struggles to acquire deference from the teachers because of her tough approach to running the school in a particular way.

Goffman argued that rules of conduct are expected to be followed in two ways: as obligations and expectations. Thus, as Hallett stated, Mrs Kox has an obligation to care for her students and staff, and she has an expectation that the students and staff will co-operate and abide by her rules.  She is expected to behave and conduct herself in a certain way and uphold the rules of conduct. Goffman argues that when an individual follows a rule that they create a particular image of themselves. Thus, Mrs Kox’s authoritative style of leadership has created a negative image of herself. Goffman argues that individuals develop a sense of self from creating an impression they wish to give others. Thus, Mrs Kox knows that she is tough and direct and sees herself through the impression she gives to her staff and students

Hallett, T 2007, ‘Between Deference and Distinction: Interaction Ritual through Symbolic Power in an Educational Institution’, Social Psychology Quarterly, vol.70, no.2, accessed 18/8/2012, http://www.jstor.org.ezproxy.uow.edu.au/stable/pdfplus/20141777.pdf?acceptTC=true