Identity Crisis and Teens:
What You Need to Know

“Teens are notoriously self-conscious,” says the Scientific American. This adolescent tendency isn’t imaginary. Research through brain-imaging experiments show that it is entrenched in their brain. Thus, the motivation to discover their teen identity could be “the result of changes in brain anatomy linked with the self, and the findings may hint at how the sense of self develops in the brain.” Most experts believe that self-awareness and identity are formed by reflecting on how others perceive you. In psychology, this is referred to as “the looking glass self.”

Research and Identity Development

According to Sarah-Jayne Blakemore, a cognitive neuroscientist from the University College London, the ability to respond to the opinion of others is basically seated in the brain area called the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC). This part is among the last areas to mature before you become a “full-fledged adult”. 

The studies of Jennifer Pfeifer, a social neuroscientist from the University of Oregon, and her colleagues, support that this brain area is more highly activated in teens than in adults when they are thinking of their identity. Kevin Ochsner, a neuroscientist from Columbia University, suggests that the amplified activity in the teen MPFC is a cue that they are learning about complicated emotional states, such as self-consciousness and self-identity. As they mature and with “practice” or continuing self-reflection, this brain area becomes more efficient, and therefore, less active.

Contributing Factors to Identity Crisis 

Though the search for one’s identity is a core process at this stage, not every teen goes through it with ease. It could be a struggle as they also adjust to various other changes. The process of self-discovery and identity formation are critical as they help us understand changes and challenges. With all these difficulties, it is a possibility that they won’t be able to successfully move forward – a phase that they could further struggle with because of an identity crisis.

What is an Identity Crisis?

Simply speaking, an identity crisis is uncertainty about who you are, creating insecurity in your sense of self. This can be overwhelming and upsetting to experience. There are added complications when teenagers experience this as they often have less effective coping skills when compared to adults. Anyone can experience an identity crisis, however, there are those that are more susceptible than others. 

Identity crisis is more common among teens who had a traumatic childhood, have been displaced, were adopted, or are struggling with symptoms of an emotional or behavioral condition. There can also be family factors, cultural and traditional influences, as well as social expectations that may contribute to their challenges. Successfully adjusting during their transitions or struggling with the challenges and symptoms could divert their attention from the critical processes of self-discovery and development of identity.

Figuring It Out with the Help of a Counselor

Figuring out who you are can be complicated, especially for teens. This is a natural part of development, however, it can be stressful and overwhelming. Working with a therapist can help you teen to move through identity development easier. Especially if they are experiencing an identity crisis that is impacting their life. 

Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville Office contracts with licensed therapists and counselors that are skilled in this area. Our caring Scheduling Team can help you and your teen find the right therapist to walk with you through this journey. Call CCS today to get started. Online counseling and in person sessions are available.