The discovery of one’s sense of self or identity is a critical process among teenagers. Though it is an ongoing process throughout life, it is during adolescence when their awareness is heightened. It is at this stage of life when they start to become curious about who they are and the whys and wherefores of their identity.

The desire to discover their sense of self is natural among teens, being ingrained in their brain. This doesn’t, however, make the whole thing any easier. The process can be complicated by a lot of factors and issues, so that the “rite of passage” can be a very arduous one. They run the risk of having an identity crisis. The adolescent core issues of independence can complicate the processes of self-discovery and the “construction” or formation of identity. There can also be other issues that may result in the journey being more difficult.

Not only can these concerns intensify their struggle and affect the quality of their teenaged life. These issues can also increase their vulnerability to emotional difficulties and conditions. “Failing” in this important task of self-discovery and development/formation of identity can impact, not only their present life, but the future as well.

Identity Formation: What is it?

“Who am I?” Is the question that can hound many teenagers, either silently or openly, depending on their personalities and experiences. One thing is certain, though, the age-old question will be asked because for the first time, they are able to appreciate the significance of identity. They can also realize that the discovery and construction processes are the primary ways by which to achieve it. This is why identity discovery and development are unique in every teenager’s life. This has been illustrated by many noteworthy stage theorists, such as Erik Erikson.

Adolescence is a time for changes – physical, physiological, psychosocial, spiritual, etc. During this critical transition, figuring out their identity is critical. No wonder that teens are intrinsically evolved and motivated to discover their identity, using their resources to achieve that. For instance, identity discovery and formation are pursued actively, using lots of energy and time. Experts say that they also use their abstract thinking to imagine how others will see or perceive them when they want to make changes, for instance, with the way they look.

These identity-related processes are “a highly cognitive and social process,” says Erik Erikson. They continually take signals from their environment and from others before taking steps or making decisions. The opinions and reactions of others, family, friends and especially their peers, matter a lot in forming their own individual sense of who they are. The process begins with intensity during the teenage years; then the intensity wanes eventually, but it goes on well into the future.

The “Looking Glass” Self and The Brain

“Teens are notoriously self-conscious,” says the Scientific American. This adolescent tendency isn’t imaginary. Science, through brain-imaging experiments, show that it is entrenched in their brain. Thus, the motivation to discover their teen identity could be “the result of changes in brain anatomy linked with the self, and the findings may hint at how the sense of self develops in the brain.” Most experts believe that self-awareness and identity are formed by reflecting on how others perceive them. In psychology, this is referred to as “the looking glass self.”

According to Sarah-Jayne Blakemore, a cognitive neuroscientist from the University College London, the ability to respond to the opinion of others is basically seated in the brain area called the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC). This part is among the last areas to mature before they become full-pledge adults. Even among adults, MPFC has also been stirred up when they become self-conscious.

The studies of Jennifer Pfeifer, a social neuroscientist from the University of Oregon, and her colleagues, support that this brain area is more highly activated in teens than in adults when they are thinking of their identity. Kevin Ochsner, a neuroscientist from Columbia University, suggests that the amplified activity in the teen MPFC is a cue that they are learning about complicated emotional states, such as self-consciousness and self-identity. As they mature and with “practice” or continuing self-reflection, this brain area becomes more efficient, and therefore, less active.

Identity Crisis – What is it?

Though the search for one’s identity is a core process at this stage, not every teen goes through it with ease. It could be a struggle as they also adjust to various changes. The process of self-discovery and identity formation are critical as these help them understand the changes and challenges. With all these difficulties, it is a possibility that they won’t be able to successfully move forward – a phase that they could further struggle with because of identity crisis.

What is identity crisis?

Identity crisis is more common among teens who had a traumatic childhood, have been displaced, were adopted, or struggling from an emotional or behavioral condition. There can also be family factors, cultural and traditional influences, as well as social expectations that may contribute to their challenges. Successfully adjusting during their transitions or struggling with the challenges and symptoms could divert their attention from the critical processes of self-discovery and development of identity.

Figuring It Out

As the body of your adolescent child kicks into overdrive, they will inevitably become confused, frightened and alone. They can change to the extent that you cannot recognize them anymore, becoming temperamental, secretive and distrustful. During this transition, they will ask “Who am I?” They will seek answers because these are critical in identity formation. Conversely, the identity can determine how they would act, behave or respond to their environment. It can define their beliefs, advocacies, and principles. It can help them make decisions.

It is because of these motivations that adolescents will do their best to figure out who they are. They may experiment on new personalities, try out varied looks or interests, or join different cliques to know what will work for them. Adults may misunderstand them as they do “crazy” things to discover and construct their identity, signing up for every popular club and sports team, dyeing their hair in every imaginable color, or donning all sorts of “in” clothes to be popular in high school or in the neighborhood. Unsuccessful in their quest, they may resort to risky behavior.

These are some of the ways they can achieve that. The other ways can be through status symbols, rebellion and forbidden behaviors, idols and role models, cliquish exclusion, family relations and influences, and affirmation from others, especially peers. There is a healthy alternative for your teen to get the answer to the question “Who am I?” One way is by seeking help from a qualified counselor.

The Journey Begins with the Right Help

Adolescents struggle with certain basic or core issues; one of which is the quest for their identity. As they develop their ability for critical thinking and deep reflection about their sense of self, they will encounter tons of concerns. They can sink deep into their thoughts, triggering the avalanche of a lot of possible emotions and responses. They can also feel lost or overwhelmed in the process. Having a counselor assist them in their quest can be very productive. This is why you must seek help from a right fit and qualified counselor independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC.

Discovering and forming an identity are not easy things to do. Your teen may need help. As a parent, you have the power to make a difference in the life of your child. To be effective you must not forget that you too need all the help you can in today’s world. The best form of help comes from the experts independently contracted with CCS – Sanford, NC. The right help isn’t too far from home. Call today!

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