SELF-PRESENTATION STRATEGIES APPLIED BY ACADEMIC TEACHERS AT UNIVERSITIES IN RZESZÓW AND THEIR POTENTIAL IMPACT ON STUDENTS: A CASE OF SELF-PROMOTION AND EXEMPLIFICATION

Abstract

The paper analyzes the application of self-presentation strategies in academic surroundings, and juxtaposes them with potential impact they may have on students. The data presented in the article constitute an excerpt of research on the application of five self-presentation strategies, i.e. ingratiation, intimidation, self-promotion, supplication, exemplification by academic teachers in Rzeszów, Poland, conducted in February and March 2018. Self-presentation, in simplified terms, constitutes the choice of behaviours to intentionally manage the impressions that others form of us, whereas a self-presentation strategy encompasses means of behaviour used to create a desirable image. The study encompasses 100 academic teachers, both men and women, between 26 and 62, employed at universities in Rzeszów. The research conducted by means of an online questionnaire indicated that self-promotion and exemplification were the least frequently applied choices. The rationale behind this result may be found in teacher’s reluctance to appear as showing off or being vainglorious. Each of the strategies was covered by 5 questions thematically connected to them. While constructing the questions, it was attempted to adjust them thematically to the strategy in question as strongly as possible. Characteristic features of the two strategies were taken into account while shaping the cognitive reality around a question.

Keywords

• self-presentation, strategy, self-promotion, exemplification, academic teacher