Psychology of Identity

Definition of Identity

• Refers to the individual's sense of self, encompassing their characteristics, values, and beliefs
• Shapes how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others

Types of Identity

• Social Identity: derived from group memberships and social categories (e.g., race, gender, class)
• Personal Identity: unique characteristics, experiences, and traits that define an individual
• Cultural Identity: shaped by cultural norms, values, and practices

Factors Influencing Identity

• Socialization: process by which individuals learn and internalize social norms, values, and beliefs
• Social Structure: societal institutions, such as family, education, and media, that shape identity
• Power Dynamics: relationships between individuals and groups, influencing access to resources and opportunities

Theories of Identity

• Symbolic Interactionism: individuals create and negotiate identity through interactions and symbols
• Structural Functionalism: identity is shaped by social structures and institutions
• Conflict Theory: identity is shaped by power struggles and conflicts between groups

Identity Formation and Development

• Identity Crisis: a period of uncertainty and exploration, often experienced during adolescence and young adulthood
• Identity Achievement: a sense of stability and commitment to one's identity
• Identity Foreclosure: an unexplored or unexamined identity, often leading to stagnation

Identity and Social Inequality

• Intersectionality: the intersection of multiple social categories (e.g., race, gender, class) and their impact on identity and experiences
• Marginalization: the process of excluding or relegating individuals or groups to the periphery of society
• Privilege: unearned advantages and benefits bestowed upon certain groups or individuals

Identity and Social Change

• Social Movements: collective efforts to challenge and transform societal norms and structures
• Identity Politics: the use of identity as a basis for political action and mobilization
• Diversity and Inclusion: efforts to promote and celebrate diversity, and to create inclusive environments

Definition of Identity

• Encompasses an individual's characteristics, values, and beliefs, shaping their self-perception and how others perceive them

Types of Identity

• Social Identity: derived from group memberships and social categories, such as race, gender, and class
• Personal Identity: unique characteristics, experiences, and traits that define an individual
• Cultural Identity: shaped by cultural norms, values, and practices

Factors Influencing Identity

• Socialization: learning and internalizing social norms, values, and beliefs through interactions with others
• Social Structure: societal institutions, such as family, education, and media, that shape identity
• Power Dynamics: relationships between individuals and groups influencing access to resources and opportunities

Theories of Identity

• Symbolic Interactionism: individuals create and negotiate identity through interactions and symbols
• Structural Functionalism: identity is shaped by social structures and institutions
• Conflict Theory: identity is shaped by power struggles and conflicts between groups

Identity Formation and Development

• Identity Crisis: a period of uncertainty and exploration, often experienced during adolescence and young adulthood
• Identity Achievement: a sense of stability and commitment to one's identity
• Identity Foreclosure: an unexplored or unexamined identity, often leading to stagnation

Identity and Social Inequality

• Intersectionality: the intersection of multiple social categories (e.g., race, gender, class) and their impact on identity and experiences
• Marginalization: the process of excluding or relegating individuals or groups to the periphery of society
• Privilege: unearned advantages and benefits bestowed upon certain groups or individuals

Identity and Social Change

• Social Movements: collective efforts to challenge and transform societal norms and structures
• Identity Politics: using identity as a basis for political action and mobilization
• Diversity and Inclusion: efforts to promote and celebrate diversity, and to create inclusive environments