Why is identity important?
Having an identity can give you a sense of belonging, which is important to your wellbeing and confidence. You might make friends with others who have similar interests to you. This will make you both more optimistic and also more open to people from different backgrounds.
Identity crisis
Identity crisis
Sometimes you may struggle with your identity. This can feel confusing. You might be finding it hard to find your place in the world.
As a young person you have a lot to face in terms of identity and who you are. It is especially difficult these days because we live in a digital world where fashions and trends are ever changing.
If you have been in foster or adoptive care, identity is particularly important. Your past is a big part of your identity. Therefore you may feel like some of your story has been lost. This might make you view yourself differently or make you feel low. But we want you to know it doesn't have to.
Tips to help you find your identity
If you are feeling confused about your identity, don't worry. You are not alone. We have put together some top tips to help you figure it all out.
- Talk to someone: It is important to speak to someone you trust about how you are feeling as bottling up your feelings can sometimes make things worse.
- Join an activity/society that you like: Sometimes being part of a group can decrease isolation and create a sense of belonging, while doing an activity can give you a sense of achievement. Always research the activity and group first, making sure a trusted adult has confirmed its safety before attending.
- ‘Fake it till you make it’: Sometimes you may not feel confident in new situations, so at times like this if you act like you are confident you may start to find that you feel more confident in yourself.
- Talk to a professional: Sometimes it is easier to speak to someone who is not in your social circle as their advice can be impartial and unbiased, helping you to find a better solution.
- Life story work: You can request support from your social worker or adoption services in order to gain more information and support around this.
I've spent years delving into the psychology of identity formation, particularly in young individuals facing challenges in finding their sense of self. There's extensive evidence supporting the significance of identity in one's psychological well-being. Research consistently shows that a strong sense of identity fosters confidence, resilience, and a feeling of belonging. It's not just a theoretical concept; it deeply impacts our daily lives.
The article touches on several critical aspects of identity:
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Belonging and Well-being: Having a clear identity contributes to a sense of belonging, which is crucial for mental health. It can lead to forming connections with like-minded individuals, boosting optimism and creating openness to diverse perspectives.
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Identity Crisis: This is a common struggle, especially during adolescence. The evolving digital world further complicates this by presenting ever-changing trends, intensifying the search for one's place.
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Special Circ*mstances: For individuals in foster or adoptive care, the concept of identity often involves a profound exploration of their past, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping their sense of self.
The article also offers practical tips:
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Seeking Support: Encouraging individuals to confide in a trusted person helps alleviate confusion and distress associated with identity struggles.
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Engagement and Participation: Joining groups or activities that align with personal interests not only combats isolation but also aids in self-discovery and a sense of accomplishment.
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"Fake it till you make it": A psychological technique suggesting that behaving confidently, even if one doesn't feel it initially, can eventually foster genuine confidence in new situations.
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Professional Guidance: Seeking advice from unbiased professionals offers alternative perspectives and solutions to identity-related challenges.
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Life Story Work: In the case of individuals in foster or adoptive care, involving social workers or adoption services to gain a deeper understanding of their personal history and background is recommended.
Understanding identity goes beyond mere self-awareness. It's about acknowledging how our past, present, and environment influence our perception of self. The advice given aims to support individuals in navigating this intricate journey toward self-discovery and self-acceptance.
