Identity: Know Thyself

Estimated Time: 30 minutes

Identity

An identity is a person's formulation and expression of their individuality and group affiliations. It may be defined as the distinctive characteristics belonging to an individual or shared by all members of a specific social category or group.

Some examples of identity groups include:

• Each person has a set of identities (We all have multiple identities)
• Each person chooses at least some identities, while other identities are given.
• People feel differently about different identities.
• Some identities are more important than others.
• Some identities are visible, while others are less apparent.
• Some identities change over time, while others are constant.

Identity Mapping

Given, Chosen, or Core Identities

Given Identities - These are the attributes or conditions that you have no choice about. They may be characteristics you were born with or they may have been given to you in childhood or later in life. Elements of your given identity include your birthplace, age, gender, birth order, physical characteristics, certain family roles, and possibly religion.

Chosen Identities - These are the characteristics that you choose. They may describe your status as well as attributes and skills. Your occupation, hobbies, political affiliation, place of residence, family roles, and religion may all be chosen.

Core Identities - The attributes that you think make you unique as an individual. Some will change over the course of your lifetime, others may remain constant. Elements of your core identity may include behaviors, beliefs, values, and skills.

Source: Hannum, K. (2008). Leadership in Action: Branching out: Social Identity Comes to the Forefront. Center for Creative Leadership.

Reflection: Reflecting on Your Identities

Adapted from Social Identity Wheel. (n.d). Inclusive Teaching at U-M. Retrieved May 15, 2022, from https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/inclusive-teaching/social-identity-wheel/

Reflection: Identities and Beliefs