Identity

In cognitive psychology, the term “identity”  refers to the capacity for self-reflection and the awareness of self. Many people gain a sense of positive self-esteem from their identity groups, which further a sense of community and belonging. Another issue that researchers have attempted to address is the question of why people engage in discrimination, i.e., why they tend to favor those they consider a part of their “in-group” over those considered to be outsiders. Social identity theory shows that merely crafting cognitive distinction between in and out groups can lead t subtle effects on people’s evaluations of others.
Different social situations also compel people to attach themselves to different self-identities which may cause some feel marginalized, Thus traveling between different groups and self-identifications.  These different selves lead to constructed images dichotomized between what people want to be (the ideal self) and how others see them (the limited self). Educational background and Occupational status and roles significantly influence identity formation in this regard.
People derive a sense of self and identity through interactions with others who give recognition and approval to a person’s abilities and accomplishments. As Children grow up, they are dependent on ‘significant others’ for forming of a positive sense of self. They develop the ability to identify, interpret, and realize their needs and desires. This will allow them to become autonomous and self-actualized grown-ups who have self-confidence, self-respect, and self-esteem. Through experience of this sort the child comes to understand him/herself as being worthy of love, care, protection, consideration, appreciation, and respect. It is able to form a positive sense of Identity and can say “I am OK”.
Human integrity is closely linked with patterns of approval and recognition because once wrongly treated by others, people feel insulted or humiliated. Such injustice not only harms or restricts individual freedom but also causes feelings of shame, rage, hurt, or indignation. As a result people are harmed in their positive sense of self and their self development which is only possible through positive interactions with others. Under most severe circumstances such as rape, torture, assault, discrimination, or marginalization a person’s identity could even be brought to the point of collapse. You’ll end up with people with severe psychiatric disturbances, a cute suicidal people, people who get stuck in the social sidelines through gambling, drug abuse, or criminal activities.
What has been found is that even when childhood circumstances did not support the development of a positive sense of identity, people can ‘fill up’ on the good stuff later on. That can take place in loving relationships. As they say: It’s never too late to have happy childhood. Now is a good time to start!