Identity

Identity formation relates to how individuals develop their personal identity and personality. Psychologist Erik Erikson extensively describes the formation of identity. Erik Erikson's theories of development state that identity formation is formed the most during adolescence when children are growing and maturing. While Erikson started the theories, it is psychologist James E. Marcia who identified four stages of identity formation wherein adolescents and adults form their personal identity.

1.  Identity Diffusion

o    In Marcia's theories, identity diffusion is the stage at which adolescents are not yet making choices or commitments. This is the stage when the child is not yet aware that he needs to make choices or commitments and instead does as he is told. Generally, the identity diffusion stage of identity formation is blind obedience to what the children or adolescents are told rather than what they believe.

Identity Foreclosed

o    The foreclosure stage of is the time when adolescents become aware of choices, but are not yet ready to make a personal choice. Instead, the adolescent tries to conform to the expectations of others. For example, an adolescent whose parents decide she will become a doctor might have the goal of becoming a doctor due to the expectations rather than personal wishes. This is the stage where the individual has not yet faced any crisis in identity.

Identity Crisis

o    The identity crisis, which Marcia also called a moratorium, is the stage of identity formation when there is exploration of various potential options and the adolescent is unsure of which path to follow. This is the time when an adolescent or young adult is starting to deal with having choices and recognizing that he might not want to follow the expected path. Typically, this is a time when the adolescent might follow several paths and try out different activities and lessons to find the best for personal enjoyment. A commitment is not yet made during this time.

Achievement

o    Achievement is the final stage where the decision is made and the adolescent or young adult is prepared to move into their personal path. The adolescent makes a conscious choice and identifies with the choice.She then starts working toward achieving the goals she has made and accepts herself as an individual.