IDENTITY SEEKING

Identity implies awareness of “who I am and where I belong as an individual” along with awareness of privileges, restraints, group membership, expectation, and social responsibilities that accompany that membership. Through the development of identity the child gains knowledge of his name, race, sex role, social class and the meanings these descriptions have for his life. These meanings are derived from the particular culture to which the child belongs. Identity formation is a continuous process governed by the opportunities available and the life conditions of an individual. A child, whose parents have suddenly become wealthy, and is therefore shifted to and expensive residential school will find it very difficult to be friendly with other wealthy boys. Later, when he has learnt to identify himself with his schoolmates, he will fell normal as part of the new group. The identity that an adolescent seeks can be very crucial. At this stage you need to be extra cautious about his peer group (circle of friends). Keep track of your child’s activities, without interfering all the time. The child is at a stage when he is experiencing a generation gap. No more does he want to tell you everything-where he spends his time, who his friends ate and how he spends his pocket money. Avoid asking such questions directly as your child will probably evade the question or get angry and become more secretive. Find out about your child’s activities discreetly, without upsetting or hurting him.