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1. Identity Development Dr Lovemore Nyatanga Lecture Learning Outcomes
Define the concept of identity
Outline how identity develops throughout life
Outline & discuss at least two theories of identity development
Critically discuss at least three factors that influence identity development
2. What is identity Individuality of the person.
The personhood
Relatively permanent traits shown in given situations (e.g in role identity = mother)
3. Personal Identity Construction of self through self knowledge
Infants start without sense of self (Freud & Piaget)
Freudian symbiotic existence
Piagetian object permanence
Lewiss existential & categorical self
4. Identity development The process by which each person becomes the individual that he or she is.
The conditions and explanations of the self as determined by biological & psychological factors
5. Ethnic identity Development The ability to identify ones own and others racial or ethnic group
Awareness of the permanence of ethnic identities
Beliefs and values associated with ethnic identity
6. Identity studies Verna (1981) Social Distance Scale
Pre-School Racial attitude Measure (PRAM)
7. Identity development in adolescence Erik Eriksons major task of adolescence was constructed as identity v. identity diffusion (Who am I uniquely?)
James Marcias theory documented stages proceeding on a continuum from foreclosure, to diffusion, to moratorium to identity achievement.
Jane Loevingers theory of personality outlines the gradual internalization of external controls and the maturing conscience for the guidance of identity decisions.
8. Individuality Identity Theory: Josselson Individuation theory: (Josselson 1980)
The individuation theory suggests four related phases:
Differentiation: Teenage recognition of separateness of own views, cultural & parental views.
Practice & experimentation (14-15yrs): Tendency to deny need for caution (I know what I am doing).
Rapprochement: Compromise between autonomy & dependence (challenge and conciliatory behaviour)
Consolidation of self: Crystallisation of sense of self-identity, autonomy, and interdependence.
9. Ruthellen Josselson Parental fears of losing control & influence sometimes fuels the identity crisis
Individuation continues throughout adolescence
10. Eriksons Theory Erikson (1963) emphasised the role of psycho-social moratorium (sometimes- identity crisis)
Adolescent may show (cognitive dissonance) moratorium regarding social roles, values, & commitment
Moratorium involves experimentation (e.g adventure travels, trying different jobs & academia
Moratorium often leads to identity achievement & commitment to social responsibilities.
Better preparedness for the next stage (intimacy vs isolation)
11. Outcome of Eriksons Identity Theory The theory focuses on the 5th stage of Eriksons epigenetic theory of development (identity Vs role confusion):
Identity is positive outcome & Role confusion is a negative outcome
Role confusion is associated with delinquent and anti-social behaviour as well as infidelity or the inability to sustain loyalties and intimate relationships.
12. Role Confusion/Diffusion Denotes the failure to achieve a relatively coherent and integrated sense of self
Characteristics of role diffusion include:
avoidance of close relationships (unable to sustain intimate relationships). Often there is fear of being hurt or rejected. Sometimes reduced tolerance.
diffusion of time perspective (out of step)
diffusion of industry (unable to hold down a job)
negative identity (moving against people)
13. Marcias Research on Identity Status Based research on Eriksons theory
Marcia interviewed students (18-22 years old)
Standard questions (occupation, religion, politics, & personal values
His pattern coding revealed 4 categories as shown in next table
Meaning of each of the 4 categories (see next slide)
14. Identity Status: Marcia (1967 & 1980)
15. Recommended reading Seifert, Hoffnung & Hoffnung (2001) Lifespan development (Chapter 11). This chapter discusses Josselsons theory, Erikson & Marcias theories.
Bee, H. (1998) Lifespan development (Chapter 6)
Ruthellen Josselson :http://wupa.wustl.edu/asmbly/bio/Josselson.html
http://www.as.huji.ac.il/ruth.html