Assertive, Offensive, Protective, and Defensive Styles of Self-Presentation: A Taxonomy

Classifications of self-presentational behavior are reviewed for differences and similarities. Earlier classifications and recent empirical research are used as a basis for a taxonomy of four styles of self-presentation--assertive, offensive, protective, and defensive--according to the relevant self-presentational intentions and the level of activity involved. Each style is illustrated with typical behavioral examples, together with individual differences and possible consequences.