Teenagers and Identity Crisis
Teenage Self-Identity
Identity is a thing that refers to an individual about how they define themselves in terms of values, beliefs, and social roles. Our self-esteem later in life is based on our teenage years’ self-identity. A teen’s identity is shaped by various internal and external factors. Despite their control of identity development, teen identities are also formed by social environments such as peers, family, school, and ethnic identity.
Is a Positive Teen Self-Identity Vital?
Absolutely! As stated above, it shapes their lifetime identity. Erik Erikson, a psychologist, argues if a teen doesn't define their personal beliefs and values, they will experience an identity crisis and they may be questioning their identity.
The Common Symptoms
There aren’t typical “symptoms” since it isn’t diagnosable. Instead, here are the common signs you may be having an identity crisis:
• Questioning who you truly are: Who Am I? — overall or in relation to a specific aspect of life, such as relationships, age, or career. Note: It’s pretty normal to experience this since people change, but if it disturbs your daily life, you may be having it.
• Experiencing great personal conflict as the result of questioning who you are, let’s say, low self-esteem and self-doubt.
• Questioning other things too! Such as your values, spirituality, beliefs, interests, or career path that has a major impact on how you and others see yourself.
• Searching for more meaning, reason, or passion in your life, but sometimes this is needed.
Common Ways of Its Issues
Les Parrott, Ph.D., a psychology professor identified the 5 most frequent ways in which teenagers express their issues with identity:
• Acquiring status symbols: Including clothing and personal belongings in order to determine a sense of positive identity.
• Forbidden “grown-up” behaviors: They tend to believe in the assumption of “mature looks” brings acceptance.
• Teenage rebellion: By using rebellion act as a way to prove that they are different from the others and likely to be accepted by their peers.
• Wanting to be “that” person: Some teenagers may identify with a well-known figure and try to imitate them.
• Grouping: Act of avoid being connected with somebody who has undesired traits from them.
Coping
These things may be helpful as you confront questions about your identity:
• Know yourself better: Ask yourself about your interest, beliefs, likes & dislikes, what are you passionate about and etc which help to know yourself.
• Considering your goals: Satisfy your needs brings a greater sense of identity.
• Being supported: Having someone to lean on is a privilege. It’s an important part of mental well-being. Friends, family members, or maybe even strangers can also be great places to find the support that you need.
What Parents Can Do
Parents play important role in the form of a teen’s identity. Good parenting really affects their identity by applying these ideas:
• Having a healthy lifestyle and good stress management.
• Avoid comparing your teen and others.
• Giving words of affirmation, such as “you did well.”
• Set healthy boundaries with your teen.
• Guide and support in a positive way.
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