James Marcia Identity Status Theory Adam Morgan Background
James Marcia Identity Status Theory Adam Morgan
Background • • • Clinical Psychologist Developmental Psychologist NOT a Stage-theorist Simon Fraser University, British Columbia Psychology professor and clinical researcher Semi-Constructivist
Influences and Theory • • Eli H. Erikson’s theories of adolescence Specifically, Identity vs. Identity Confusion Believed roles in identity affect self Identity is determined by CHOICE CRISIS Always in one status Status may SHIFT under circumstances
Foreclosure • • Adolescent believes they have FEW CHOICES Willing to commit to SHIFT Relies on others for future CHOICES Not yet experienced a CRISIS
Identity Diffusion • Adolescent believes they have NO CHOICES • Not attempting or willing to SHIFT • Usually centered around CRISIS
Moratorium • Adolescent in CRISIS but has CHOICE • High levels of stress • Extremely willing to SHIFT Disney’s Mulan (1998)
Identity Achievement • Adolescent has CHOSEN identity AFTER CRISIS • Willing to commit to CHOICE • Resistant to future SHIFT
Marcia’s Status Questions • Established a commitment to an occupation and ideology? • Experienced, or were presently experiencing, a decision making period (CRISIS)?
Status Shift • • • Shifts could be caused by changes: Experiences Values Strengths Sexual Orientation
Critique • • • Constructivist Crisis-impact theorist Relevant for trauma patients Relevant for diverse students Extremely relevant in Secondary Education We are who we are
Classroom Applications • • • Journal writes in the classroom Games Counseling becomes more useful Relate to students based on situation Find ways to help students shift “Coming-of-age” literature
References • • Wikipedia. org Learning-Theories. com Slideshare. net (Virginia Tech) Disney (Mulan)
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