Constructing Identity in the Digital World
In today’s world, our identities aren’t just about who we are offline. They’re also shaped by how we show up online. Social media allows us to explore and present different sides of ourselves, and with every post, story, and interaction, we’re creating versions of ourselves.
But this flexibility also raises questions:
How much of what we share is “real,” and how much is carefully curated?
Shaping Digital Identity
“A status, a position, a social place is not a material thing to be possessed and then displayed; it is a pattern of appropriate conduct, coherent, embellished, and well-articulated.”
Goffman, 1959: 75
This idea also connects to impression management, where we control our perception. According to Goffman, we use “setting, appearance, and manner” to create impressions. On Instagram, my setting is the carefully chosen photo; my appearance is styled, and my manner is thoughtful. On TikTok, the setting is casual, the appearance is more natural, and the manner is light-hearted, creating an authentic impression to match the vibe of that platform.
Different platforms often bring out different sides of us. For example, I use Instagram to share highlights of my life beautiful photos, exciting events, or cool places I visit. It’s where I present a polished version of myself. In contrast, on TikTok, I’m more unfiltered, sharing funny or random moments that feel truer to my everyday personality. This aligns with sociologist Erving Goffman’s presentation of self-theory, which suggests that we “perform” different versions of ourselves based on the context and audience. Instagram becomes my “front stage,” where I put forth a curated image, while TikTok feels more like the “backstage,” where I can be spontaneous and let my humour show.
The Benefits and Challenges of Digital Identity
Digital spaces allow people to explore their identities in ways that might feel restricted offline. Social media provides a space to express different sides of us and connect with others who relate to those aspects. For many, especially those in marginalised communities, these spaces can provide a sense of belonging and the freedom to explore identity in ways that may not feel possible in their everyday lives. However, there are challenges. Platforms like Instagram can create a highlight reel effect, where we’re constantly comparing our real lives to everyone’s polished versions. Research shows that these comparisons can negatively impact mental health, especially among younger users. It’s easy to feel that everyone else’s life looks perfect, even though we know it’s just one side of the story. Influencers highlight this tension between “authentic” and “curated.” They often share aspirational and relatable moments to create a well-rounded yet curated brand. This mix makes their digital identity engaging, but it’s important to remember that even the “real” moments are often carefully staged.
Finding Balance
To maintain a healthy digital identity, it helps to remember that what we see online is only part of the story. Practising digital literacy can help us avoid the comparison trap by recognising that online personas are curated differently.
Conclusion
Our digital identities are a mix of real and performed aspects shaped by the unique nature of each platform. As we navigate these spaces, staying aware of the gap between actual and curated can help us enjoy social media while staying true to ourselves.
Bibliography
- Goffman, E. (1959). The presentation of self in everyday life. Anchor Books.
- Marwick, A. E. (2013). Status update: Celebrity, publicity, and branding in the social media age. Yale University Press.
