Religious Identity Development
Marcia’s four states of adolescent identity formation are diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium, and achievement. Each state represents a different stage in developing an identity, and people may move through these stages at different speeds depending on their experiences and personalities (Chapter 16). In my early adolescent years, I was in a state of identity diffusion, evident in my lack of strong convictions about religious paths. At the time, I did not see the need to commit and start following the teachings of a religious leader.
Notably, that state of ignorance changed when I heard a missionary testifying about their near-death experience and the fate of different people after life on earth. After listening to him, I started exploring different religious teachings, focusing on their enlightenment about the source of life, death, and the existence of hell and heaven. I listened to teachings from priests, prophets, teachers, and leaders of other religions and made my personal decisions. That state of identity moratorium ended when I finally decided to put my faith and trust in God. As far as matters of religion are concerned, I am now in a state of identity achievement.
Vocational Identity Development
In addition, I have experienced Marcia’s stages in varying degrees concerning my vocational identity development. As a teenager, I was in a state of diffusion with no clear goals or plans for my future career. I felt overwhelmed by the many options available to me. I did not know what I wanted to do, and I did not feel motivated to explore my options. This diffusion continued into my early twenties as I struggled to find direction.
In my mid-twenties, I moved into a state of foreclosure. I decided to pursue a career in a field where I had some experience that did not necessarily align with my passions or interests. I had to choose something that seemed safe and practical. I worked in this field for several years, but never felt fulfilled or engaged by my work. Eventually, I reached a point where I couldn’t ignore my dissatisfaction any longer.
I entered a state of moratorium and began exploring different options and figuring out what I wanted to do with my life. I took classes, talked to people in different fields, and did a lot of introspection. I discovered new passions and interests, and I began to see a path forward that felt more authentic and fulfilling. Finally, I reached a state of achievement when I landed a job in a field that aligned with my passions and values. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment and knew I had worked hard to reach this point.
However, I also knew that my journey was far from over. Identity development is an ongoing process. I will continue to grow and change as I gain new experiences and face new challenges. My personality played a big role in my getting stuck in certain stages. I am naturally cautious and risk-averse, making it difficult to take big leaps and try new things.
I also struggled with self-doubt and impostor syndrome, making it hard to believe in myself and my abilities. Overcoming these barriers required hard work and introspection, but it was worth it. I am now in a career I love and feel more confident and fulfilled than ever.
Sexual Identity Development
Regarding my sexual identity, I never experienced any form of diffusion or moratorium. It was based on my assigned gender at birth. Moreover, when I entered adolescence, I started experiencing puberty-related changes. I have always been straight, implying that I am sexually attracted to people of the opposite gender. My faith in God also helped me to find sexual identity early in life, such that I never had to explore or experiment with other genders.
Notably, my decision did not result from what Marcia calls identity diffusion, where a person decides without considering their options. The truth is that I knew who I was from childhood. Even though I know of many people who are confused in the area, I think focusing on their natural gender can help them receive the answers they need.
Reference
Chapter 16 Adolescence 2 – Human Growth and Development: Adolescent Cognitive, Moral, and Identity Formation.