An Analysis of Identity Change in Adulthood

Abstract

Despite increasing evidence that identity changes in adulthood do take place, there is little knowledge about what the process of change looks like. We perceive identity change as a change in the organization and rules that underlie identity commitments. Based on script theory (Tomkins, 1995) and on notions about the processes in adult development and clinical theories, we developed a conceptualization of this process. Conflicts are seen as the potential trigger of change. People may react to conflicts with assimilation, withdrawal, or accommodation. Accommodation implies identity change. The process of accommodation consists of increasing exploration and knowledge of oneself. We distinguish different steps in this accommodation process. In a case study, empirical evidence for these steps was found.