Forming a Negative Identity in Contemporary Society: Shedding Light on the Most Problematic Identity Resolution

ABSTRACT

Negative identity is an identity that is formed by identifying with roles opposed to societal expectations. This topic has been neglected in prior research, which only focused more consistently on positive identity. This article aims to discuss (1) the importance of the concept of negative identity in contemporary society, (2) the frameworks for empirical research on negative identity formation, and (3) the clinical interventions for youth with a negative identity. In particular, we propose that the concept of negative identity highlights the importance of sociocultural contexts that restrict positive identity development, especially for marginalized youth. This paper opens a novel path for researchers and clinicians regarding the understanding of negatively formed identities and enhances future research.

KEYWORDS:

• Negative identity
• contemporary society
• culture
• identity content valence
• master and alternative narratives

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.