Temporal Identity Integration as a Core Developmental Process
Title
Temporal Identity Integration as a Core Developmental Process
Author
Syed, Moin
Mitchell, Lauren L.
Research Area
Development
Topic
Self and Identity Development
Abstract
The construct of identity has captivated scholars across the social sciences, humanities, and the arts. For good reason, too, as the question who am I? cuts to the core of human experience. Following Erikson's theorizing, developmental psychologists have stressed the importance of an identity that is extended through time. A healthy identity is defined, in part, by individuals' ability to reconcile and integrate their past experiences, current concerns, and future prospects, a phenomenon we label temporal identity integration. In this chapter, we review the foundational theoretical and empirical work pertaining to temporal identity integration, drawing on developmental, social, and personality psychology perspectives. We then review some of the most exciting empirical findings across these areas, and provide suggestions for future directions on the topic.