• 137: Identity formation - the main job of a teenager?

  • Apr 9 2025
  • Length: 47 mins
  • Podcast

137: Identity formation - the main job of a teenager?

  • Summary

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    In psychology, the term "identity" is most commonly used to describe the distinctive qualities or traits that make an individual unique. Identities are strongly associated with self-esteem, and individuality and - for a teenager - forming their identity is a crucial job.

    It's been over two years since I created the first episode looking at the topic of identity formation. In this episode I have pulled material from the orginal discussion, and brought in Susie to revisit the topic so we can discuss what we have learned during our parenting journeys.

    One of the key issues we discuss is the imortance of being flexible and not fixing a child's identity, so they have room to develop and grow. We can help this by supporting their teens' self-worth and personal growth; having open discussions about perceptions and roles.

    BOOKS:

    • Inventing Ourselves; The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain by Sarah Jayne Blakemore
    • His Dark Materials - Phillip Pullman
    • How to Raise a Healthy Gamer - Dr Alok Kanojia

    RESOURCES:
    Identity
    https://www.choosingtherapy.com/identity-crisis/
    https://www.harleytherapy.co.uk/counselling/who-am-i-identity-crisis.htm
    https://aspiroadventure.com/blog/why-is-teen-identity-development-important/#:~:text=Identity%20formation%20in%20teens%20is,most%20of%20their%20adult%20life.
    The 8 stages of development Eric Ericson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYCBdZLCDBQ&t=28s

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for your support.

    Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message.

    I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping.

    My email is teenagersuntangled@gmail.com
    My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact us:
    www.teenagersuntangled.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teenagersuntangled/
    Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/teenagersuntangled/

    Susie is available for a free 15 minute consultation, and has a great blog:
    www.amindful-life.co.uk

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