Mask Theory

Theory Brief

The 'Mask' is the combined fascet of the Status and Role(s) that one possesses as an element of their personal identity. Masks 'fit' on the exterior of one's sense of Self. The identity of an individual is, then, the combination of the Self and the multitude of Masks that a person wears. Depending on what type of interaction we engage in, we will switch between various masks to best accomodate the nature of the interaction.

Definitions:

• Status: The honor or prestige attached to one's position in society (one's social position). It may also refer to a rank or position that one holds in a group, for example son or daughter, playmate, pupil, etc.
• Role: A set of connected behaviours, rights and obligations as conceptualised by actors in a social situation.
• Identity:  The portion of an individual's self-concept derived from perceived membership in a relevant social group.
• Self:  A multi-dimensional construct that refers to an individual's perception of "self" in relation to any number of characteristics, such as academics (and nonacademics), gender roles and sexuality, racial identity, and many others.