Bringing light into the dark side of identity: Theoretical and clinical applications: A case study

Abstract

In the final part, a clinical reflection is presented on the dark side of identity formation and the empirical papers of this special issue. It is important that both researchers and clinicians ask themselves how theory and evidence about identity development can be used in clinical practice. Therefore, a relevant case study is presented about an emerging adult struggling with identity formation, Tim. Various facets of Tim's struggling are illustrated based on findings from this special issue. Starting from identity diffusion, Tim's transition to moratorium and achievement was examined from three complementary theoretical frameworks and related research on these topics as outlined in this special issue. Finally, change processes throughout therapy were discussed from various clinical frameworks.

Childhood maltreatment and identity diffusion among inpatient adolescents: The role of reflective function

“…Identity integration refers to consolidation or integration of one's previous identifications across contexts and time (Weymeis, 2016), whereas identity diffusion has been described as "a loss of capacity for self-definition and commitment to values, goals, or relationships, and a painful sense of incoherence" (Goth et al, 2012, p. 3). An integrated identity has been linked to greater self-esteem, self-efficacy, meaning in life, social relationships, and overall functioning, and to fewer internalizing and externalizing problems (Crocetti, Rubini, & Meeus, 2008;Goth et al, 2012;Schwartz et al, 2011;Weymeis, 2016), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2019.08.002 Received 16 February 2019; Received in revised form 29 July 2019; Accepted 5 August 2019 whereas identity diffusion is associated with poor psychological functioning (Berman, Weems, & Petkus, 2009), and is particularly associated with personality pathology (Kernberg, 1985;Marcia, 2006). Given the importance of identity for future outcomes and its significance during adolescence, there is a growing focus on the public health impact of promoting healthy identity (i.e., identity integration; Schwartz & Petrova, 2018).…”

Adolescents' responses to parental regulation: The role of communication style and self-determination

“…Even more broadly, societies also may encourage a greater freedom to self-direct within the contexts of adolescents' lives (Hansen & Jessop, 2017). In addition, interventions directly targeting adolescents' identity development may be a direct in-road to foster adolescents' awareness of their personal goals and values and promote adolescents' self-determined functioning (e.g., Berman, Kennerley, & Kennerley, 2008;Weymeis, 2016).…”