This is a crucial period when the identity of a person is discovered for example who they are, what values they have, and the directions they choose to pursue in life (Berk, 2014, 318). Erikson states in his theory that if young people’s earlier conflicts were resolved negatively or if society limits their choices to ones that do not match their abilities and desires, they may appear shallow, directionless, and unprepared for the challenges of adulthood (Berk, 2014, 318). Their identity development is processed by exploring life options then taking account their dislikes and likes then making decision based on those things leading them to their self-structure. In adolescence a self-understanding is developed as well as self-concept and self-esteem which helps with developing an identity. The four identity statuses are the following identity achievement, identity moratorium, identity foreclosure, and identity diffusion. Identity achievement is when they have committed to a clear formulated set of values and goals. Identity moratorium is when they cannot make a definite commitment but they are exploring their options. Identity foreclosure is when they have committed to values and goals without exploring other options for example, the child of a nurse decides to become a nurse because that is what her mother does. Identity diffusion is when the …show more content…
The seasons of life consist of young-old, destruction-creation, masculinity-femininity, and engagement-separateness. These years may bring many adjustments to a person’s identity and life structure in which these seasons describe the challenges they may face. Most spend these years focusing inward adjusting their selves for the challenges ahead when they face the four developmental task he describes. Young vs. old describes the middle-age dealing with seeking new ways of being both young and old (Berk, 2014, 425). Destruction vs. creation focuses on their past wrong doings and how they can correct those to leave a positive legacy behind. Masculinity vs. femininity this is a balance for both genders men develop greater acceptance traits of caring. Engagement vs. separateness focuses on the period when those that have high ambitions may become more self-focused. After dealing with these four developmental tasks they should attain greater internal