Identity vs. Role Confusion

 Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erik Erikson believed that people develop through psychosocial stages, each stage affected by the resolution of the last stage. Each stage is defined by a task or crisis described as an interaction of opposite forces. How a person resolves each successive crisis builds personality and identity (Feist et al., 2021).

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

Pick one of eight Psychosocial Stages proposed by Erikson and answer the following questions:

• What words are used to describe the crisis of this stage?
• What would cause a favorable resolution of this stage?
• What would interfere with a resolution?
• Give an example of the crisis in this stage, either through your own experience, your observations, or from fiction.

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APA

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erikson’s Psychosocial Stage: Identity vs. Role Confusion

The crisis of this stage, which typically occurs during adolescence (ages 12–18), is described as identity versus role confusion. The central task is for the individual to develop a clear and stable sense of self, including personal values, beliefs, and life direction.

A favorable resolution occurs when the adolescent explores different roles, activities, and beliefs, eventually committing to a personal identity that feels authentic. Supportive relationships, open communication, and opportunities for self-exploration foster success in this stage. Mentorship and positive role models also help by providing guidance without imposing rigid expectations.

Interference with resolution happens when the adolescent faces excessive pressure to conform, lacks supportive guidance, or experiences environments that limit exploration. Bullying, lack of acceptance, or instability in home and school life can increase confusion and delay identity formation, sometimes leading to uncertainty and low self-esteem in adulthood.

An example is seen in the novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower, where the main character, Charlie, struggles to define himself amid peer influence, trauma, and self-doubt. Through friendships and self-reflection, he begins to form a clearer sense of identity, showing how exploration and support lead toward favorable resolution.

Reference
Feist, J., Feist, G. J., & Roberts, T. (2021). Theories of personality (10th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education