Digital Theory, Culture & Society
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025): December

Dramaturgical interaction in virtual reality as a stage for self- presentation: A study on five content creators in Jakarta

Ditania, Hany (Unknown)
Jahja, Rusfadia Saktiyanti (Unknown)
Kurniawati, Atik (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study aims to identify the forms of self-presentation performed by content creators on Instagram through a dramaturgical approach, as well as to explain the role of followers in shaping the creators' identity presentation on social media. This research employs a qualitative approach with a case study method, conducted from January to August 2023. The subjects consist of five Instagram content creators aged 20–30 years, all based in Jakarta. Data was collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and literature study, and were further supported by expert insights in the field of social media. The data were analyzed using Erving Goffman's dramaturgical theory. The findings reveal that content creators construct their digital persona on the front stage through curated visual content, a consistent communication style, and narratives tailored to audience expectations. Meanwhile, aspects of private life and emotional fatigue are managed backstage as part of a more personal space. Followers play a role in shaping content creators’ identities through comments, direct messages, and interactions that foster one sided emotional connection. Identity on Instagram is not a pure reflection of the self but the result of personal strategy, algorithmic pressure, and the ongoing demand for social connectivity.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

dtcs

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

This journal covers various issues of today digital era as well as the intersection of social, cultural, economics and humanities disciplines in highlighting the theoretical and practical sides of the digital culture and society: social media and digital society, gender and digital culture, religion ...