Identity Development in Adolescence: Implications for Youth Policy and Practice

Abstract

Adolescents experience several developmental transitions involving physical growth, advances in cognition (thinking), and increased expectations from society. In light of these developmental experiences, they typically begin to explore and understand their place in the social world. This process is commonly described as identity development. In this chapter, we briefly review identity theories that are relevant for youth practitioners and policy makers to consider. We discuss how identity relates to other aspects of adolescents’ health and development. In addition, we discuss priorities for youth policy and practice regarding adolescents’ identity development and highlight a youth-centered policy and youth organization that focus on developing adolescents’ positive identity (My Brother’s Keeper and the Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health). Finally, we provide a few practical recommendations for youth practitioners and policy makers. Specifically, we describe three strategies that can be used by youth development practitioners who want to incorporate identity development into their programming: (1) encourage adolescents to explore social issues, (2) encourage adolescents to reflect on their experiences, and (3) give adolescents opportunities to engage in decision-making.