A Theoretical Review of Erikson\'s Analytical Framework for Female Identity Formation
AUTHOR : 박아청
INFORMATION : page. 49~64 / 2001 Vol.8 No.2
ABSTRACT
The epigenetic model for female identity formation developed by E. H. Erikson remains one of the most theoretically comprehensive studies, and it touches on wide areas of human growth. In this study, those psychological aspects of the identity formation are examined as the purpose of this study is an investigation of female identity formation. Erikson\'s assumption on psychological crisis resolution is that the positive resolution of the identity crisis is predictive of more mature intimacy formation. Although he expressed the differences between male and female developmental processes of identity formation, he did not codify the idea until much later. However, the sex differences were evident in empirical studies by other investigators. According to some researchers, female identity status develops along with intimacy status. Therefore contemporary norms regarding the appropriate roles for female will have to contrasted with the social expectations of Eriksons original model on female identity achievement. This study identifies a complex association between female identity and intimacy formation. Numerous complex sex differences were observed in several interactions between gender, commitment, and intimacy context. Finally an attempt has been made to develop an analytical framework for female identity formation for further studies to go beyond the identity and intimacy linkage.