Michelle CameronHDF 201 Paper #1July 9, 2011

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erik Erikson was a developmental psychologist. His theory of psychosocial development

consists of a stage in a human’s life where one questions their role, purpose and identity (Papalia,

Olds, & Feldman, 2009). This stage occurs during adolescence and is labeled as an identity crisis,

also known as identity vs. role confusion (Passer & Smith, 2007). This is a turning point when

there is a shift from society having sole influence on the self, to individuals searching within

themselves to establish an identity. According to Erikson, adolescents in this stage are searching

for sexual identity, an occupation, and values to live by (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009). During

the searching out process, there are issues to confront, decisions to be made about the self, and

affects on family and societal relationships that we need to consider.

Cognitive and physical changes are important aspects to consider in regards to the process

of searching for self-identity. Change in physical appearance and in personality traits, both plays

a role in how individuals view and define themselves. Puberty and fast growth can serve as

setbacks during the period of role confusion. Puberty includes a change in body proportions

regarding height and weight. The disproportions may call for lack of confidence and lack of a

concrete vision of self. There are other psychological outcomes from puberty especially in

females, such as change in mood and behavior as a result of the presence of hormones (Passer &

Smith, 2007). During this same time, males are more vulnerable to crime and drugs during early

maturation (Passer & Smith, 2007). Eating disorders or depressive symptoms may also be

accompanied by body changes during this period. All of these issues are highly concerning and

have major impact on an adolescent’s sense of identity (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009).

The brain and cognitive reasoning are also quickly developing during adolescence. The

brain is constantly maturing, however as an adolescent there are still gaps between a child brain

and an adult brain. During this time, there is evidence of increase risk taking, aggression and

experimentation with drugs (Passer & Smith, 2007). High-risk behavior is due to lack of full

maturation of the brain. One further issue adolescents confront during the searching out process is

adolescent egocentrism. This is a distorted and self-absorbed view of thinking, which alters sense

of reality and sense of self (Passer & Smith, 2007).

In attempting to resolve who they are and how they’ll live, an adolescent often confronts

the aspects of ethnicity and sexuality (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009). As a part of forming and

defining sexual identity, an adolescent must acknowledge the presence of sexuality, and have an

understanding for romantic relationships (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009). Not everyone

develops the same attitude towards this category, which is exactly why it is part of individualistic

searching of self. Similarly to sexuality, individuals often need to redefine themselves based on

their view of ethnicity. There are varying degrees of exploring, understanding and finding

meaning to one’s ethnicity that takes place (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009). Finding a place

and value for ethnicity is important in shaping who an adolescent becomes and is also important

in defining a sense of self.

During the period of searching within, a concept of storm and stress is often present.

Storm and stress is a term for the conflicting relationship between an adolescent and their parents

and/or older generations (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009). Not all adolescents experience

extreme outbreaks or rebellion; according to Papalia, Olds, & Feldman (2009), 1 out of every 5

adolescents fit the description of adolescent rebellion. That is not to say that the other 4 out of 5

teens develops through puberty with flawlessness between themselves and their parents. “Family

conflict, depression and risky behavior are more common [during adolescence] than during other

parts of the lifespan” (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009, p.405). However, Erikson believed in a

balance between negative and positive traits during this development. I believe the balance that

offsets potential negative family relationships, is the positive relationship with peers that are

formed during adolescence (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2009, Passer & Smith, 2007). Peers have

a strong influence on each other regarding self of self as well as daily decisions. Adolescent

friendships are often much stronger than any peer relationship in the past; these relationships tend

to be with those who show similar qualities to each other (Passer & Smith, 2007). This treasured

bond is important in aiding an adolescent in defining their identity (Passer & Smith, 2007). This

is partially due to the fact that forming intense peer relationships results in a detachment of

adolescents from their parents.

Dealing with bodily changes, as well as maturity, and outside social factors such as

sexuality and ethnicity, are all variables that play a role in the search for one’s identity. Different

experiences regarding each of these categories add to role of confusion; however exploring and

understanding each of the categories is what helps secure values and definitions of oneself.

Erikson believed that positive and negative experiences balance each other out and that society

has a positive influence on the self. Those principles are evident throughout the explanations of

negative changes/experiences that adolescents go through, but in turn these experiences help

create a solid understanding of self. Inner turmoil and searching within is a stage in life which is

highly shaped by societal influences, followed by personal reaction and opinions based on those

influences.

References

Papalia, D. E., Olds, S. W., & Feldman, R. D. (2009). Human Development. (11th ed.). Boston:

McGraw Hill.

Passer, M. W., & Smith, R. E. (2007). Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behavior. (3rd ed.).

New York, NY: McGraw Hill.