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Problems With Identity

Identity refers to how you see yourself in relation to a larger group; it includes religious groups, nationality, social groups, local cliques or political ideals. These associations become a part of how you think and your choices in relation to surrounding events. Problems arise with individual identity based on improper associations or unhealthy associations.

  1. Seeking Higher Approval

    • Low self-esteem causes havoc on individuals seeking a healthy identity. While having low self-esteem, you are more likely to seek associations with popular groups whom you perceive as stronger and more worthy of praise. Through these associations, you hope to supplant their group appreciation for you in place of self-esteem, thereby bolstering your self-perception, says Mark Dombeck, Ph.D. But this leaves your self-esteem at the group's mercy. You may feel compelled to support the group's views or actions to facilitate continued appreciation and group value.

    Avoiding Groups

    • If your level of self-esteem decreases to a severe point, you may begin to see yourself as someone who does not deserve any associations. This extreme can lead to dangerous disassociation. You may feel a preference toward isolation, even for extended periods. You may also seek to avoid personal contact and close friendships. Even relationships with family may be strained.

    Low Self-Efficacy

    • The level of self-efficacy determines how much control you feel you have over your life. Low levels leave you feeling like you have little or no control and make you susceptible to outside control. At an extreme level, you feel powerless to reject or deny the influence of groups or individuals, says Dombeck; your identity becomes an absolute in your life and you reject the suggestion that you can overcome it.

    Mob Mind

    • The mob-mind phenomenon occurs when a group decides on a course of action and through peer pressure and group influence, you are encouraged to go along with the action even if it contradicts your ethics. This influence can often be too powerful to resist. The mob mind phenomenon is a common identity problem and seen both in extreme cases -- when otherwise normal people are moved to extreme violence -- and cases when extraordinary beliefs are held as fact by a group.

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