This stage is characterized by low levels of commitment to and exploration of an identity; people in this stage don't have a commitments to a set of goals
or values and are struggling with forming any commitments. 


Identity Diffusion

Someone in this stage has adopted an identity without considering or exploring any
alternative identities (e.g. parents telling their kid they need to become a doctor).  Foreclosure is characterized by high commitment and low exploration. 

Identity Foreclosure

A person in this stage is exploring for an identity, but has not committed to one; it is characterized by high levels of exploration, but low commitment. 

Identity Moratorium

Stage where one personally chooses a commitment to a set of values and goals for one’s life. Characterized by high levels of commitment and exploration.

Identity Achievement

Identified four stages of identity development in adolescence:
- Diffusion 
- Foreclosure 
- Moratorium 
- Achievement

Alma College

Identity relates to things that we hold to be our most basic sense of self (e.g. goals, values, gender, and social roles). It involves a sense of continuity in our lives and helps take action for the future. Identity is one's definition of who they are. 

Aspects of Identity

Setterlund, M., Feshbach, S., Weiner B., & Bohart A. (2019). Personality. United States of America: Academic Media Solutions.

Personality 5th Edition

James Marcia's Stages of Identity Development in Adolescence

Contains models pertaining to how people develop their sexual identities.

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