“I Am ________”

Abstract

Many developmental tasks of emerging adulthood involve identify formation. Trying to develop a sense of self can be challenging, given the many aspects of identity. For certain students, having membership in multiple identity groups means competing values, traditions, and practices. This chapter first provides an overview of social identity theory, including attention to the development of identity through an interpersonal lens and through an intergroup lens. Then, it identifies how emerging adults learn about themselves and develop confidence and the ways and means through which they find their motivation. Guiding questions help readers apply this information to their work with emerging adults in higher education.