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Summary
Erikson's original concept of Instrumental Identity is less relevant today. A new theory of Existential Identity is proposed, shifting focus from success/failure to victim/beneficiary status in identity formation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Erikson's theory of identity development.
- Shifting societal values in consumer/service-oriented cultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a new conceptualization of identity: Existential Identity.
- To re-evaluate Erikson's original concept of Instrumental Identity in contemporary society.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of Erikson's identity theory.
- Conceptual development of Existential Identity.
Main Results:
- Erikson's Instrumental Identity concept is less applicable in modern society.
- Existential Identity introduces a new dimension of victim versus beneficiary.
Conclusions:
- A shift from Instrumental Identity to Existential Identity is occurring.
- Adolescence may represent the search for Instrumental Identity, while youth represents the search for Existential Identity.