Self in Everyday Life

Abstract

Play theory and Goffman's frame analysis provide the theoretical structure
for this self-study of the author at the time of his retirement. Rather
than Goffman's self as a product of behavior, self is conceived as
always at issue (although usually implicitly), rooted in values, and
requiring Q methodology to bring it to light. N=45 statements drawn from
Goffman provide the Q sample, which is used under 10 conditions of
instruction focused on the issue of retirement. Three factors emerged
and were interpreted in terms of both their overt and covert meanings.
The results are discussed in terms of Goffman's thesis and play theory.