Self-mortification and changing experiences tend to break down the inmates’ former self-concept. The self is then slowly rebuilt, partly by means of rewards and punishments administered by those in authority.

Especially in prisons and mental hospitals, ‘a small number of clearly defined rewards or privileges are held out in exchange for obedience to staff in action and spirit.’ Failure to humble the self and act in accordance with official directives results in punishments which continue the mortification process. Goffman argues that many of the actions of inmates can only be understood with reference to the strict supervision and mortification of self that occurs in many total institutions.