Step 1: Read Each of the Following Scenarios.
Identify the status of the adolescent in each scenario and discuss why you chose each identity:
James Marcia expanded on Erikson's description of the conflicts encountered at the identity versus identity confusion stage. Four types of resolution are described: identity diffusion, identity foreclosure, identity moratorium, and identity achievement. The resolutions vary on two dimensions - the presence or absence of a crisis and the presence or absence of a sense of commitment to an identity. After describing each type of resolution, identify the status of the adolescent in each scenario.
- Marsha is a 14-year-old who, when asked what she wants to do when she graduates from high school, replies, "Maybe I will get married and have some children, or maybe I will be a neurosurgeon, or a fashion designer."
- Seventeen-year-old Suzanne is questioning the tenets of the religion in which she was brought up. For the first time, she is examining her beliefs and considering other belief systems. At the end of the period, she chooses to follow the same religion as her parents.
- Lorraine is 16 years old and, when asked what she wants to do when she graduates from high school, replies, "I never really thought about it. I guess I will decide when the time comes."
- After Bill graduates from high school, he plans to go into his father's business. He has been talking this over with his parents since he was a young boy and is eager to fulfill his parents' expectations.
- Michael was asked to debate issues concerning premarital sex in his health class. His parents always taught him that premarital sex was wrong, and that they would be disappointed if they discovered he had participated. After thoroughly investigating the consequences of premarital sex, Michael came out against it.