Identity encompasses the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create one’s sense of self. This amalgamation creates a steady sense of who one is over time, even as new facets are developed and incorporated into one’s identity.
Identity formation and evolution are impacted by a variety of internal and external factors like society, family, loved ones, ethnicity, race, culture, location, opportunities, media, interests, appearance, self-expression and life experiences.
The fact is that our society — indiscriminate of the customs or cultures within it — has already begun shaping one’s identity through years of categorization and labeling based on traits and expected behaviors. Before we’re born, these pre-determined groups are already crafted so we can be sorted. Society can act as a positive and negative force on our identity. We consciously and subconsciously look to our parents, siblings and extended family members for the building blocks of our identity formation. This influence is a two-way street — as we learn and develop our identity, our loved ones’ identities evolve because of our impact on their lives. Our platonic and romantic relationships also change who we are. Location and opportunities are perhaps two of the most variable influences on our identities. The country we’re born in, the town we live in and the community we’re part of impact our sense of self. If we feel isolated, out of place or unaccepted in the collective identity, we may come into conflict with our personal identity. Research has found that different variables within our physical surroundings can change the way we perceive our lives. While it might not change our personality, it can reinforce our existing thoughts about our identity. One of the most complex and multifaceted factors that influence identity formation is ethnicity, race and culture. Like society, the media influences how we should — and consequently, how we do — see ourselves. Our hobbies and personal interests are also essential elements of our identity. Our appearance and way we express ourselves are how we choose to represent this identity visually. We may choose to project our culture, personal interests or status through our appearance. Past experiences can also contribute to our identity formation. Developmental trauma experienced in childhood shapes who we are as adults, with earlier instances of distress leading to more profound levels of negatively impacted identity formation.
An existential crisis is a recurring pattern of thoughts regarding your identity, purpose in life, and legacy, among other things. Existential questions may appear at any point in your life and can affect your mood and overall quality of life. An existential crisis most commonly appears during a person’s teenage years and in their late twenties. However, these thoughts can also come up at other times, especially later in life when a person may begin to question their mortality and past achievements. Some specific conditions can increase your risk for existential questioning. For example, people with depressive, bipolar, and obsessive-compulsive disorders are usually more prone to existential crises.
– Who am I?
– What’s my purpose in life?
– What am I using my remaining time for?
– Am I being authentic to who I truly am?
– Have I made the right choices in life?
An existential crisis can lead to significant changes in a person’s life regarding their identity, achievements, mindset, and other essential aspects.
Existential crises may also appear during “happy times,” like the birth of a new child or getting married. Existential questions may also arise during times of doubt, like if you’re considering changing your religious beliefs.