A critical examination of the ego identity status paradigm

Abstract

This paper presents critical arguments which challenge the assumption that the identity status paradigm, as formulated by James Marcia, appropriately conceptualizes and operationalizes Erik Erikson's theory of ego identity formulation. We discuss Marcia's conceptualization of the identity stage, indicating ways in which it diverges from Erikson's theory, how a number of Eriksonian concepts are not integrated into the paradigm, and how some ostensibly “Eriksonian” terminology used by Marcia is inappropriate and constitutes an impediment to the theoretical interpretation of empirical research in Eriksonian terms. In concluding our analysis of the identity status paradigm we attempt to demonstrate the extent to which it is interpretable in Eriksonian terms and go on to suggest why an interdisciplinary approach is necessary to fully understand ego identity formation. Finally, we raise a number of questions about the nature of the identity crisis that we believe investigators must confront if research in this area is to become sensitive to the difficulties involved in making claims of cross-cultural and transhistorical validity.