Identity

What is Identity
Identity refers to the distinct characteristics, qualities,

beliefs, values, and behaviors that define an individual or a
group of people. It encompasses the various aspects that
shape a person's sense of self and how they perceive
themselves in relation to others and the world around them.
Identity can be shaped by a multitude of factors, including
but not limited to personal experiences, cultural
background, social interactions, and individual traits.
Dimensions of Identity
Personal Identity: This dimension refers to

the unique characteristics, traits, and
experiences that make an individual distinct
from others. It encompasses elements such as
personality traits, personal history, talents,
skills, and individual preferences.
Social Identity: Social identity relates to the
groups or communities to which an individual
belongs and the social roles they adopt within
those groups. It includes aspects such as
nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion,
socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation.
Dimensions of
Identity
Cultural Identity: Cultural identity refers to the
shared beliefs, customs, traditions, and values
that are transmitted within a particular culture or
subculture. It encompasses factors such as
language, food, art, music, rituals, and cultural
practices.
Psychological Identity: Psychological identity
encompasses an individual's self-perception,
thoughts, emotions, and self-esteem. It includes
aspects such as self-image, self-worth, self-
concept, and self-efficacy
Professional Identity: Professional identity
relates to the roles, skills, and expertise that
individuals develop within their chosen
professions or occupations. It encompasses the
knowledge, qualifications, and experiences that
contribute to a person's professional identity.
Erikson views
Erik Erikson's views on identity are primarily
outlined in his fifth stage of psychosocial
development, known as "Identity vs. Role
Confusion." This stage occurs during adolescence,
typically between the ages of 12 and 18
According to Erikson, identity formation involves
exploring and reconciling various aspects of
oneself, including values, beliefs, goals, interests,
and social roles. Adolescents engage in a process
of self-examination, questioning who they are and
what they want to become. They may experiment
with different identities and roles as they strive to
establish their own sense of identity.
Erikson views
Erikson emphasized that a positive
resolution of the identity crisis leads to the
development of a strong and integrated
identity. This involves the ability to
understand and articulate one's values,
beliefs, and life goals, as well as a sense of
continuity and coherence across different
contexts and roles. A well-formed identity
provides a foundation for making decisions,
navigating relationships, and pursuing a
fulfilling life.
Erikson views
• Erikson believed that during this stage,
adolescents rely on a variety of sources to
shape their identities. These include
personal experiences, relationships with
peers, interactions with family and
authority figures, societal expectations,
cultural influences, and exploration of
different social roles. Successful resolution
of the identity crisis involves integrating
these various influences into a cohesive
and authentic sense of self
Psychosocial
Moratorium
It refers to a period during adolescence when

individuals are granted a temporary suspension
of adult responsibilities and expectations period
of temporary freedom and exploration in order
to explore different roles, values, and identities.
According to Erikson, the psychosocial moratorium is
a crucial stage in the process of identity formation. It
provides adolescents with a space and opportunity to
experiment, try out different roles, and engage in self
exploration without the full consequences and
commitments of adulthood. During this period,
individuals can explore various possibilities, question
societal norms, and actively search for a sense of
identity
Crisis (Exploration)
• Crisis refers to a period of active questioning,
exploration, and examination of different values,
beliefs, interests, and life goals. It involves a sense of
uncertainty, confusion, and questions about one's
identity. During a crisis, individuals actively seek out
information, engage in self-reflection, and explore
various possibilities to gain a better understanding of
themselves and their identity.
Commitment
• Commitment refers to the psychological investment
individuals make in their chosen values, beliefs,
interests, and life goals. It involves making conscious
decisions and choices based on personal exploration
and self-reflection. Commitment signifies a sense of
personal investment, dedication, and alignment with a
particular identity or set of identities.
Identity Statuses
• Identity Diffusion: Individuals in this status have not
experienced a crisis or made a commitment regarding
their identity. They may be apathetic, avoidant, or
indifferent to exploring and making decisions about
their values, beliefs, and life goals. They lack a clear
sense of direction or commitment and may exhibit a
sense of confusion or uncertainty about their identity.
Identity Statuses
• Identity Foreclosure: Individuals in this
status have made a commitment to an
identity without experiencing a crisis or
exploration. They have adopted values,
beliefs, or life goals based on external
influences, such as parental or societal
expectations, without critically examining
or exploring alternatives. They may lack a
genuine understanding of their own
preferences and may be resistant to
considering other possibilities
Identity
Moratorium
• Individuals in this status are
actively experiencing a crisis or
exploration of different identities
without having made a firm
commitment. They are engaged in
an ongoing process of questioning
and seeking, exploring various
options and possibilities. They
may be open to new experiences,
seeking information, and
considering different perspectives.
This status is characterized by a
sense of active exploration and
questioning.
Identity
Achievement
• Individuals in this status have resolved
their identity crisis by actively exploring
various options and commitments,
ultimately making a clear and committed
identity choice. They have gone through a
process of exploration, critically examining
different possibilities, and have arrived at a
sense of identity that is consistent with
their values, beliefs, and life goals. They
have made conscious commitments and
have a strong sense of self

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What is Identity

Identity refers to the distinct characteristics, qualities,

Personal Identity: This dimension refers to

It refers to a period during adolescence when

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