Identity development process and content: Toward an integrated and Contextualized science of identity

Abstract

This introductory summary provides an overview of the content of the special issue entitled "Identity Development Process and Content: Toward an Integrated and Contextualized Science of Identity." The 16 theoretical and empirical articles that comprise this special issue were selected to highlight innovative methodologies, theoretical integration, and multicultural perspectives on the process and content of identity formation. The articles examine identity in developmental stages ranging from early childhood to young adulthood, and represent samples from 5 different countries. Within the geographic regions represented, authors explore diverse domains of identity development, addressing relevant and timely aspects of identity formation. Together, the contributions of the special issue are poised to move the field of identity research forward, both theoretically and empirically.