PSY 362 - Identity Development: Understanding the Self in Context

Developing a clear sense of who you are is a key developmental task. This course explores the complexities of identity development, drawing insights from a variety of disciplines and theoretical perspectives. Throughout this course, we will attempt to answer the questions: What is an identity? How does an individual’s identity develop and change over time? We begin with an examination of major theoretical frameworks on identity and identity development from the three main perspectives: developmental, social, and narrative psychology. Then, we will shift our focus to various components of personal and social identity, including ethnic-racial, career, and religious identity, as well as identities established within relational contexts, such as romantic relationships, friendships, or parenthood. Through discussions of empirical research, we will explore the dynamic interplay between personal characteristics and social influences in shaping one’s identity. The format will be primarily conference, with some lecture in order to provide you with important background information and a framework for discussing the readings.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
Restriction(s): Psychology and neuroscience majors only
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Notes: Registration priority is given to intended/declared psychology or neuroscience majors.
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data, or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.