The stormy search for self in early adulthood: developmental crisis and the dissolution of dysfunctional personae

Robinson, Oliver and Smith, Jonathan (2010) The stormy search for self in early adulthood: developmental crisis and the dissolution of dysfunctional personae. The Humanistic Psychologist, 38 (2). pp. 120-145. ISSN 1547-3333 (electronic) 0887-3267 (paper)

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated episodes of early adult crises and the impact of these on identity development. Six individuals were interviewed twice about an experience of formative crisis between the ages of 25 and 40. Results showed a common dynamic starting with a precrisis conformist persona, and an identity correspondingly divided into inner (true) and outer (false). Over the course of a stressful life transition, the person separates from the precrisis roles and relationships that nurtured this fragmented identity and searches for a more unified and integrated life structure. Postcrisis identity is sought through experimentation and trial-and-error. New jobs and relationships permit the expression of feelings, values and aspirations, which in turn brings a sense of autonomy and authenticity.

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