Question

Match the identity status with its example. (16 points)

Answer 1

The Identity Status Theory comes from psychologist James Marcia. He studied a person's exploration and commitment in different aspects of their lives, then broke down a person's sense of identity into four Identity Statuses. 

Identity diffusion occurs when someone doesn't have a sense of having choices. They are not attempting or willing to make a commitment and will avoid exploring their options. 

Moratorium status is when someone is in crisis. They either don't have commitments or aren't quite sure what they are, however, they are exploring and are ready to make choices.

Achievement comes once a person has experienced and worked through a crisis. They've explored their identity and made commitments as to their identity. 

Foreclosure status is when someone has committed and have not experienced an identity crisis or explored their options. Their role, values, or goals may be influenced to conform to other's expectations (for example, parent's choices for their future).

To match your identity status and examples, 1. Diffusion is A (no big changes, coasting along), 2. Moratorium is B (struggling how to respond, exploring options), 3. Achievement is C (thought about options, committed to choice), 4. Foreclosure is D (was and remaining a vegetarian).