EGO IDENTITY: A Comprehensive Review of Research and Theory
Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the research and theories related to ego identity. Specifically, the review covers the history and development of ego identity theory, research on adolescent and adult ego identity, and the implications of ego identity for our understanding of psychological well-being. The review concludes with directions for future research.
Introduction
The concept of ego identity has been a major focus of research in psychology for much of the past century. Ego identity is defined as a person’s sense of self, or their self-concept, that is based on the individual’s understanding of the roles and values they hold in relation to their social environment (Erikson, 1950). Ego identity is typically developed in the context of adolescence, and it is thought to be an important factor in psychological well-being and social development. In this review, we provide an overview of the history and development of ego identity theory, research on adolescent and adult ego identity, and the implications of ego identity for our understanding of psychological well-being.
History and Development of Ego Identity Theory
The concept of ego identity was first introduced and developed by Erik Erikson in the 1950s. In his seminal work, Identity: Youth and Crisis, Erikson outlined the eight stages of psychosocial development, with the fifth stage focusing on the development of the ego identity (Erikson, 1950). Erikson argued that the ego identity is formed through the process of identity exploration and commitment, where individuals explore various identities and values and eventually form a sense of self based on those values and identities.
Since Erikson’s original work, the concept of ego identity has been further developed and applied in a variety of contexts. Marcia (1966) developed a framework for studying ego identity in adolescents, focusing on the concept of identity diffusion (lack of commitment to any identity) and identity foreclosure (premature commitment to an identity). This framework has been widely used in research on adolescent identity formation. Other theorists have argued that ego identity is an ongoing process, with individuals continually exploring and re-evaluating their identities throughout adulthood (Higgins, 1987; Waterman, 1993).
Adolescent and Adult Ego Identity
Research on ego identity in adolescents has focused primarily on the concept of identity formation. Numerous studies have demonstrated that adolescents go through a period of identity exploration and commitment, in which they explore various identities and values and eventually form a sense of self based on those values and identities (Erikson, 1950; Marcia, 1966; Waterman, 1993). Studies have also shown that adolescents who are able to successfully complete this process are more likely to have higher levels of psychological well-being and social functioning (Adams & Gullotta, 1995; Marcia, 1966; Waterman, 1993).
Research on adult ego identity has focused primarily on the concept of identity re-evaluation and exploration. Studies have demonstrated that adults also go through a period of identity exploration and re-evaluation, in which they explore and re-evaluate their identities in order to adjust to changing circumstances and new roles in life (Higgins, 1987; Waterman, 1993). Studies have also shown that adults who are able to successfully complete this process are more likely to have higher levels of psychological well-being and social functioning (Adams & Gullotta, 1995; Higgins, 1987; Waterman, 1993).
Implications for Psychological Well-Being
The research on adolescent and adult ego identity has important implications for our understanding of psychological well-being. Studies have demonstrated that individuals who are able to successfully form and re-evaluate their ego identities are more likely to have higher levels of psychological well-being and social functioning (Adams & Gullotta, 1995; Higgins, 1987; Marcia, 1966; Waterman, 1993). This suggests that interventions that focus on helping individuals to explore and commit to their identities may be beneficial for promoting psychological well-being.
Conclusion
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the research and theories related to ego identity. Specifically, the review covers the history and development of ego identity theory, research on adolescent and adult ego identity, and the implications of ego identity for our understanding of psychological well-being. The review concludes with directions for future research.
References
Adams, G. R., & Gullotta, T. P. (1995). Adolescent identity formation: Concurrent and longitudinal analyses. Journal of Adolescence, 18(5), 459-477.
Erikson, E. H. (1950). Identity: Youth and crisis. Norton.
Higgins, E. T. (1987). Self-discrepancy: A theory relating self and affect. Psychological Review, 94(3), 319-340.
Marcia, J. E. (1966). Development and validation of ego identity status. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 3(5), 551-558.
Waterman, A. S. (1993). Two conceptions of self: Implications for self-regulation and psychological resilience. Development and Psychopathology, 5(2), 203-228.