If the identity crisis is caused by a lack of self-certainty, one must work to become consistent in their self-image as it pertains to the image one presents to others. A role experimentation identity crisis is resolved by trying out new roles in order to find the role that feels most comfortable to use. An anticipation of achievement identity crisis can be resolved by evaluating one's actual chances of success in their role and adapting their role, or their expectations, accordingly in order to create more achievement and success.
An identity crisis can also be caused by a sexual identity crisis. A sex identity crisis is often best resolved by personally evaluating one's persona, asking whether he or she is comfortable with being male or female and in dealing with others of the other sexes.
When leadership polarization occurs, an identity crisis can follow. This type of identity crisis occurs when one is trying to determine whether or not they are a leader or a follower. However, this role can change depending on the situation as one can be able to become both a leader and a follower. This is one of the most common areas of identity crisis experienced by adolescents. In order to assist them through this form of identity crisis, one should focus on providing opportunities for numerous types of leadership experiences and roles, allowing all individuals who want to at least try to be a leader the opportunity to succeed in at least one activity.
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As the world changes around an individual, one is often faced with pressure and challenges to what they hold as being the social, philosophical and religious values. To overcome such an identity crisis, the individual must constantly reevaluate their values and how they apply to various situations in an always changing world.
Thus, as can be seen from the above overview of identity crisis, going through an identity crisis is a natural part of our psychosocial development. The identity crisis is what takes an individual from one stage of development into the next. It is the resolution of such crisis that create an essential virtue that is important in determining our unique personalities and identities. Although we all go through identity crisis, sometimes additional help is needed for their resolution. This is particularly true during the adolescence stage as these individuals yet lack the necessary virtues needed for proper resolution.
Bibliography
Erikson, Erik. (1980): Identity and the Life Cycle. New York.
Friedman, Lawrence J. (1999): Identity's Architect: A Biography of Erik H. Erikson. Oxford.
Hoare, Carol Hren. (2002): Erikson on Development in Adulthood: New Insights from the Unpublished Papers. New York.
Marcia, J.E. (1966): "Development and Validation of Ego Identity Status." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 2, pp. 551-58.
