Identity Status Analysis

According to the book “identity status” refers to the point in the identity development process that characterizes an adolescent at a given time (Marcia, 1966). Some researchers have used a procedure that makes an emphasis on the processes of exploration-trying out with diverse ideas about occupations, values, relationships…- and commitment-creating options among different choices-. A number of theorists have created two different stages: exploration in depth (“making a commitment to an identity and then exploring one’s options) and exploration in breadth (“exploring one’s options and then making a further commitment”) (e.g., Luyckx, Goossens, & Soenens, 2006). Other theorists have seen identity growth as a more “dynamic process.” All of them

During this period, the individual is exploring diverse values, beliefs, and goals, but still, they haven’t make a firm decision regarding which beliefs, values, and goals are best or most significant for them. All their choices are still open in order to decide which standards should model their life. For example, an adolescence boy that been attending with his mother to a Christian Church all the Sundays during his childhood, but now that he has a better understanding of the world, he prefers to read and learn more about other religions around the world. Besides, he hasn’t established yet what religion to follow because he is now energetically taking into account what values, beliefs, and principles he wants to

At this point, the individual has solid and stable decision about what values, beliefs, and goals are more important to them and what motivation will guide their life after a period of active exploration and intense commitment. In order to reach identity achievement, the person must feel positive and self-assured respecting their principles and decisions. Studies done have proved that individuals in the state of achievement are healthier than others on distinct aspects such as achievement motivation, moral reasoning, intimacy with peers, and career maturity. By way of illustration, a young lady that has voted for the first time, but she didn’t do it before reading about all the contestants and what they believe about the recent issues that the country is facing such as gun control and what is best for her and her community. Besides, she decided what is the best candidate according to her beliefs and values. In the end, she figured out what the best option matching her own beliefs and values with the candidates’ values and