What perspective compares societal interactions to theatrical performance?

The correct choice is the dramaturgical perspective, which likens social interactions to a theatrical performance. This approach, developed by sociologist Erving Goffman, emphasizes how individuals present themselves in everyday life as actors perform on a stage. Just as actors modify their behavior and appearance for their roles, individuals tailor their actions and expressions based on their audience and social context.

In this perspective, concepts such as "front stage" and "back stage" are critical; the front stage represents the public persona one projects, while the back stage signifies private behaviors that may not align with the public image. This analogy illustrates how social interactions are constructed and maintained through a series of performances, highlighting the dynamic nature of identity and interpersonal relationships.

The other perspectives do not emphasize this performative aspect. Symbolic interactionism looks at the meanings individuals derive from social interactions but does not specifically draw a parallel to theater performances. Conflict theory focuses on power dynamics and social inequalities, while structural functionalism examines how various parts of society function together to maintain stability. Thus, these theories do not reflect the interpretative and performative nuances captured by the dramaturgical perspective.