What aspect does "pretense" typically involve?

"Pretense" typically involves the act of pretending to be something one is not. This concept denotes a deliberate façade or disguise that an individual adopts to create a false impression, often for personal gain or to manipulate perceptions. The essence of pretense lies in its deceptive nature, distinguishing it from authentic expressions of self-identity or genuine emotions, which convey true feelings and experiences. In contrast, pretense is inherently inauthentic, as it relies on artifice rather than sincerity or honesty.