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James E. Marcia, a psychologist, had figured well on researches that dealt with
identity issues during adolescence. For him, identity is internal, self-constructed, dynamic
organization of drives, abilities, and individual history.
He has identified four identity or statuses and correlated them with other aspects of
personality. These are anxiety, self-esteem, moral reasoning and patterns of social
behaviour. These stages do not form a progression; and are not in any way included in the
identity search but they are not necessarily permanent. A person’s identity status may
change as he or she develops.
Marcia’s four identity statuses are determined by the presence or absence of the two
elements which to Erikson are crucial to forming identity: crisis and commitment. Marcia
defines crisis as a period of conscious decision-making while commitment as a personal
investment in an occupation or a system of beliefs (ideology). He defined a crisis as a
time of upheaval where old values or choices are being reexamined. The end outcome of
a crisis leads to a commitment made to a certain role or value.
Erikson believed that individuals have to confront with old troubles before they arrive
at an identity. This, he refers to the sense of self usually achieved through an examination
and commitment to the particular role an individual should play as an adult member of
society. Identity affords the individual to know himself better, prepare you for his future
and realize his dreams and ambitions. Perception of self includes how others see us and
the importance they attach to the values and accomplishments (Patterson, Socthing, and
Marcia, 1992 as cited by Cobb, 2001).
In defining identity, Erikson also considered 3 domains to be of paramount
importance: sexuality as expressed in an adult gender roles , occupation , and ideology or
religious and political beliefs.
Identity Status Theory. (2014, July 23). Retrieved March 12, 2019, from Learning
Theories: https://www.learning-theories.com/identity-status-theory-marcia.html