Identity Versus Role Confusion Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Identity Versus Role Confusion?

Identity versus role confusion is a concept explored in the fifth stage of Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory. This stage occurs during adolescence and is characterized by an individual’s struggle to find their own identity while navigating through various roles they are expected to take on as part of their social environment. During this time, individuals typically experience confusion as they try to understand who they are, what values define them and how these values fit into society. The primary task during this stage is for adolescents to gain a sense of self-identity by exploring different interests, trying out new activities and making decisions that will shape their future lives. They must also contend with societal expectations related to gender roles, religious beliefs or cultural traditions which can add further complexity to this process. In addition, peer pressure can play a role in influencing an individual’s decisions about identity and how much importance should be placed on conforming or breaking away from social norms. If successful in resolving this crisis, young people will gain a strong sense of self-identity and purpose in life as well as increased confidence in decision-making capabilities. Failure to resolve this conflict could lead to confusion regarding one’s place within society, feelings of low self-esteem or even depression if the adolescent feels overwhelmed by conflicting ideas about themselves and those around them. Overall, identity versus role confusion is an essential part of growing up that all adolescents must go through at some point in order to establish who they are and where they fit into the world around them. With support from parents, teachers or other adult figures during this time period it can create positive outcomes such as increased autonomy and greater self-confidence allowing individuals more freedom when making important choices later on down the road.