What is identity?

Identity is about knowing who you are. Knowing yourself is knows your identity. Identity includes: Sense of self according to your

• Roles
• Skills
• Knowledge
• Personality
• Behavior
• Culture
• Ethnicity
• Religions
• Gender
• Family
• Friends

Identity formation is very complex, it:

• Begins in childhood
• Takes place over a long period of time
• Is an important step during adolescence?
• Involves a variety of experiences in its development

How does one form an identity?

Factors influencing positive identity are: Parent and family members Positive parents who encourage participation in family decision-making help to foster identity development. Factors that enhance identity formation:

• You are accepted as what you are by your family
• You are given clear instructions and consequences of your actions
• Your parents are consistent in enforcing household rules
• You are allowed to express yourself, to reason and negotiate your intentions and concerns

Culture and Ethnicity (Race)

• Culture is a set of attitudes and behaviors among a group of people.
• Social practices and expectations may differ from one culture to another.
• Your ethnicity and cultural practices determine your identity.

Gender Being male or female is an identity and has influence on many aspects of your life. Religion

• Religion has guidelines that shape your identity.
• Religion can be used to help teenagers make transition into adulthood.

Peer group (friends) Mixing with friends influences your identity:

• Behavior
• Looks
• Music’s
• Activities
• Etc