Persona (psychology)

A persona is like wearing a costume or pretending to be a different person. It's not lying, but it's acting a certain way to fit in or achieve something you want. For example, when you meet your teacher, you act differently than when you meet your friends, but you are still you. A persona is like doing that, but more intentional. Sometimes people use a persona when they perform on stage or act in a movie, or when they want to seem tough or confident in a social situation. It's a way to control how others see you and how you feel about yourself. In psychology, a persona is seen as a way to protect your inner self and feel more in control of your life.