The Construction of Identity and Self-Positioning of the Winner of MIC THONGKHAM Season 8

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the narrative structure, identity construction, and self-positioning of the winner of Mic Thongkham Season 8, utilizing Dan Roam’s performance narrative framework. Data were collected through a content analysis of archived episodes broadcasted on the WorkpointOfficial YouTube channel. The findings from twelve video narratives reveal that the stories were organized around three central themes: family tribulations, the inception of a singing contest career, and participation in the Mic Thongkham Season 8 singing competition. Analysis based on the five elements of the performance narrative structure indicates a common paradigm across all narratives: the conflicts presented by the contestants were ultimately resolved through singing or their participation in the competition. Regarding identity construction and positioning, the study demonstrates that the narratives consistently constructed and positioned Mr. Chonphipat Chusaeng as a “good and grateful son to his family,” a “respectful disciple” of the judges, and a “formidable contender” to other contestants, while simultaneously acting as a “peer (friend, senior, or junior)” among fellow participants. Furthermore, he was represented as a “singer/artist” and as a “kinship figure (child/grandchild)” in the eyes of the audience. These constructed identities and positions were strategically designed to foster audience memorability and emotional impression, thereby stimulating continued viewership, moral support, and public endorsement. Consequently, the study suggests that audiences should consume such media content critically and cultivate media literacy.