The Search for the Structure of Identity Formation

Abstract

The search for the structure of identity formation is a necessary undertaking for the comprehension of identity, identity changes, and identity development. This article attempts to show that the identification of structure and structural stages of identity implies a movement away from the identity status model.We support and clarify our claim by discussing how Kroger's (this issue) definition of the concepts of structure and structural stages in relation to the identity status model leads to serious restrictions in these concepts. The concept of structural integration is introduced as an alternative interpretation and definition of the structure of identity formation. The definition and theoretical implications of the concept of structural integration are clarified and related to other recent conceptual and empirical analyses of identity theory and research.We then go on to show how the concept of structural integration can be studied in empirical research.

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