Description

The concept of identity has become widespread within the social and behavioral sciences in recent years, cutting across disciplines from psychiatry and psychology to political science and sociology. All individuals claim particular identities given their roles in society, groups they belong to, and characteristics that describe themselves. Introduced almost 30 years ago, identity theory is a social psychological theory that attempts to understand identities, their sources in interaction and society, their processes of operation, and their consequences for interaction and society from a sociological perspective. This book describes identity theory, its origins, the research that supports it, and its future direction. It covers the relation between identity theory and other related theories, as well as the nature and operation of identities. In addition, the book discusses the multiple identities individuals hold from their multiple positions in society and organizations as well as the multiple identities activated by many people interacting in groups and organizations. And, it covers the manner in which identities offer both stability and change to individuals. Written in an accessible style, Identity Theory makes, step by step, the full range of this powerful new theory understandable to readers at all levels.

Features

• The authors are among the most productive and important sociologists conducting research on identity and their work is widely recognized and respected
• This is a much-needed and definitive synthesis and integration of the vast amount of work that has been produced on identity theory

Reviews

"[Identity Theory] encourages not only more systematic research, but also a continuing discussion among theorists and practitioners about the meaning and measure of identity theory." --Contemporary Sociology

Product Details

272 pages; 50 b/w illus.; 6 1/8 X 9 1/4; ISBN13: 978-0-19-538827-5ISBN10: 0-19-538827-5

About the Author(s)