Identity
Crisis
Identity Crisis is a state of confusion
about who I am regarding self and the greater community. Most teenagers navigate through defining
their identity without any hiccups. Some
may not experience any confusion at all.
However, Identity Crisis is still a common
phenomenon in our fast-paced world. Different value systems and role models are vying for
our young people’s attention in this pluralistic society. Young
people will incorporate preferred aspects of values and examples into their own
identities. They will test out and
experiment before committing to some sort of identity. For young people growing up in a secure and
trusting environment, the identity formation is consistent inside out.
There are four observable outcomes and
processes of an identity crisis:
1. Teenagers who have explored enough and have
committed to a certain identity for the time being.
These teenagers seem to be content and
happy with their choices. They seem
adjusted in making small explorations and well balanced in developing
significant commitments. Parents can
celebrate with them each step of the way.
2. Teenagers who have not explored much and
remain noncommittal to any identity
These youngsters may keep shifting in who
they want to be and are easily influenced by peers and others. Parents can encourage their children to
explore more and try different achievable and manageable things for
developing a sense of accomplishment.
3. Teenagers who have been exploring but have
not committed to any particular identity
This group may continue to be in a state of
not fitting the norm, not committing to any groups or professions. They have their ideals and preferences but
not ready to commit yet. They may be
quite independent and may seem to be rebellious. Parents may listen more and understand where
their dreams and aspirations lie.
4. Teenagers who have not been exploring but
are highly committed to a certain role and identity.
These teenagers may appear very compliant,
following the footsteps of their predecessors.
Since they have not explored much about their preferences early on, a
midlife crisis may appear later in life and become a time to discover
themselves. While growing up now,
parents may give them more room to explore and encourage them to voice their
own opinions. This is important for them
to develop their own identity, voices, preferences, and directions in life.
In short, the ABCs in fostering stronger identities among our daughters:
Affirming their exploration: We can
give them room to try, to test, and to experiment. We guide, cheer, and support them through the
process.
Believing in their choices: We can see
the good out of their choices and trust that the natural consequences will take
its course of providing feedback to learn the limitations and realities of life.
Celebrating
their commitments:
Enjoy their baked goods; pick up and send off as they volunteer in
community projects; Give small gifts and praises.
