Erikson proposed that the primary challenge for adolescents is to establish a well-organized sense of self consisting of values, belief systems, and goals.
(a) How do you define yourself? Consider *your* aspirations, student identity, ?family roles, talents, personality traits, interests, hobbies, religious?ideology, gender identity, political ideology, volunteer activities, ?and other aspects of self. Identify 5 to 8 aspectsof your identity that are most valued by you?
(b) Marcia's research, which supported Erikson's theory, highlighted four types of resolution to the identity challenge. Now, consider?the 4 types of identity resolutions for each of *your* definitions of ?self, keeping in mind “Exploration” and “Commitment.” Are there some ?goals/values/belief systems that are under transition? Have you been ?challenged to reconsider what it means to be (fill in the blank)??Are you still exploring what some of these mean to you? Have you made ?commitments to some? If so, are some of these commitments the result of ?socialization from family, friends, or other important influences? Are ?some commitments the result of deep soul searching on your part? IN OTHER WORDS, how has each aspect of your identity been resolved (which are achieved, in moratorium, foreclosed, and diffused)?
(c) What insights do you have from learning about Identity Development?