Dr Manju Antil (Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist)

• Developed primarily by Erving Goffman in the 1950s in his seminal work The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life.
• Goffman proposed that social interactions are performances where individuals present themselves in ways that will be accepted by others.

Self-Presentation Theory

Overview: Self-presentation theory suggests that individuals actively manage their public image through various strategies to influence how others perceive them. This theory posits that people engage in behaviors that align with their desired self-image to gain social approval, acceptance, and validation.

Treatment Approaches:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help individuals understand the motivations behind their self-presentation strategies and modify any maladaptive behaviors. By challenging negative thoughts related to self-worth, individuals can develop a healthier self-image.
2. Social Skills Training: Enhancing social skills can empower individuals to engage more authentically and effectively in social situations, reducing the need for excessive self-presentation efforts.
3. Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Practicing mindfulness can help individuals become aware of their self-presentation habits and reduce the pressure to conform to external expectations. Self-compassion exercises can foster acceptance of oneself without the need for constant validation from others.

Prevention Strategies:

1. Promoting Authenticity: Encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves can reduce the pressure to engage in superficial self-presentation. This can be achieved through workshops, group activities, and support groups.
2. Building Resilience: Teaching coping strategies and resilience can help individuals handle social pressures better, making them less likely to resort to extreme self-presentation strategies.
3. Education on Social Media Use: With the rise of social media, educating individuals on the impacts of online self-presentation and fostering critical thinking about social media can help reduce the negative effects of comparison and validation-seeking behaviors.

Hopelessness Theory

Overview: Hopelessness theory posits that feelings of hopelessness can contribute to depression. It suggests that individuals who experience negative life events and perceive them as uncontrollable and permanent may develop a sense of hopelessness, leading to depressive symptoms.

History:

• Developed by Lyn Y. Abramson, Martin E.P. Seligman, and John D. Teasdale in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
• This theory evolved from the earlier Learned Helplessness Theory, which posited that individuals learn to feel helpless when they perceive their actions do not affect outcomes.

Treatment Approaches:

1. Cognitive Therapy: This approach helps individuals challenge negative thought patterns associated with hopelessness. By reframing their perspectives on life events and instilling a sense of agency, individuals can combat feelings of helplessness.
2. Problem-Solving Therapy: Teaching effective problem-solving skills can empower individuals to address challenges directly, reducing feelings of hopelessness and increasing a sense of control over their lives.
3. Behavioral Activation: Encouraging individuals to engage in pleasurable activities can help combat hopelessness by increasing positive experiences and promoting a sense of accomplishment.

Prevention Strategies:

1. Early Intervention: Identifying individuals at risk for hopelessness and providing support through counseling or therapy can prevent the development of depressive symptoms.
2. Resilience Training: Programs that build resilience, coping skills, and adaptive thinking can help individuals manage stressors more effectively, reducing the likelihood of hopelessness.
3. Community Support Programs: Providing community resources and support networks can foster connections, helping individuals feel supported and less isolated in their struggles.

Conclusion

Both self-presentation theory and hopelessness theory offer valuable insights into understanding behavior and mental health. By implementing effective treatment approaches and prevention strategies, individuals can enhance their self-perception, build resilience, and mitigate feelings of hopelessness, ultimately promoting better mental health and well-being.