Identity is defined as something that is unique or differentiated from others, yet the same within itself or over time.
Identity Development
Identity formation is the 5th stage in the human developmental life course as proposed by Erik Erikson Eight Stages of Development. This identity v. role confusion stage is marked by a normative psycho-social crisis in the adolescence and young adulthood stage, where the desired result is to resolve the conflict through establishing an achieved identity.
- Assess personal assets and liabilities and how to use them
- Vocational (career) identity and goals
- Formation of personal ideology/life-philosophy
- Values to guide behavior
- Religious or existential beliefs
It may come in the form of these questions:
- What am I good at?
- Where did I come from?
- Who am I?
- What should I do with my life?
- What is important to me? What do I value?
Resolution to identity enables one to make commitments in education, career, relationships, finances, adult roles, etc. as a part of the individualization process which lays the foundation for the future.
The identity formation stage requires that one deliberately work to develop this individually. Identity is not given by society, nor by some automatic maturational phenomenon. Identity must be required through sustained individual efforts. Unwillingness to work on one’s own identity formation carries dangers or role diffusion which could result in alienation and a lasting sense of isolation or confusion.
References: Erikson, E. H. (1963). Childhood and Society. New York: W.W. Norton. Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and crisis. New York: Norton. Muuss, R. E. (1988). Theories of Adolescence, 5th Ed. New York: Random House.