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How Does Watson Use Dramaturgy To Analyze Prisoners?

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As an illustration, Watson (1982) conducted a study on prisoners using concepts and premises of dramaturgy to analyze prisoners’ self-portrayal. Watson found prisoners generally cons and manipulate to influence judgments and responses of others. Goffman refers this technique as a cynical performer. Prisoners who cons are essentially people who are motivated by self-interest and distrustful. Con and manipulation obviously displays the non-commitment to the personality. Ultimately, prisoners who are willing to say or do anything for this behavior style, their desired goal is for an earlier release. However, it is argued that prisoners have no choice but to pretend and deceive the staff in order to survive in the institution. Prisoners are convinced

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