Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

According to Erik Erikson, the primary psychosocial crisis faced during adolescence is identity ____.

1. confusion

2. formation

3. assertion

4. discovery

The correct answer is: confusion

Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development identifies adolescence as a critical stage for forming a cohesive sense of self, which he describes as the identity crisis. The term "identity confusion" reflects the struggles and uncertainty that adolescents experience as they explore different roles, beliefs, and values in their quest to establish their personal identity. During this period, individuals may face conflicting expectations from their families, peers, and society, leading to a profound search for self-understanding. Successfully navigating this crisis results in a strong sense of identity, while failure can lead to confusion about one’s place in the world and a fragmented self-concept. This emphasis on confusion highlights the challenges inherent in the process of identity development during these formative years.