Goffman’s analysis of total institutions differs from previous approaches to organizations because of its emphasis on understanding action in terms of meanings. From an interactionist perspective, an answer’ to the question, ‘What happens in organizations?’
Involves an investigation and interpretation of the meanings which actors assign to objects, events and activities
Goffman argues that an individual’s name, his clothes and possessions are symbols, they are impregnated with meaning. By interpreting this meaning he is able to assess the significance of the removal of these symbols. Clearly this form of analysis relies heavily on the sensitivity and interpretive skills of the observer. Since it is not possible to enter the consciousness of others, there is no certainty that the meanings identified by the observe are those employed by the actors.