IDENTITY CRISIS AND SELF-DISCOVERY IN TEENAGERS
Most sensitive phase of human beings is adolescence. It is a
phase of life when a child steps out of the innocence of childhood and moves
into youth. This is a phase of life
where not only there are bodily changes but a deep transformation into ones
thought, behavior and emotions. This period is characterized by a mix of
excitement and confusion. This period of transition is also crucial for shaping
who a person becomes. Though physical changes are often visible but it is
difficult to determine the mental changes.
Brain Development: The Brain undergoes a massive
reorganization therefore there is a
greater tendency towards risk taking and strong emotions.
Identity Formation: Teenagers began to question themselves – “Who am
I ?’’, “Where do I fit in?”, “What is my true identity?”, “How do people see
me, and how do I see myself?”.
Social Relationships: The focus often shifts from family
to friends. Peer relationships become incredibly important and can have a
significant influence on teen’s choices and self-esteem.
Emotional Intensity: Emotions can be more intense and
sometimes overwhelming. Teens are navigating new feelings and learning to
manage them in healthy ways.
Because of these changes
adolescence can be challenging both for the teens and their families. This
search and confusion are what we call an Identity Crisis. But if teenagers receive
proper guidance and support this can become the most beautiful opportunity for self-discovering
and self-growth.
Symptoms of Identity Crisis
There is a core struggle in a teenager
who is searching for their place in the world which is often manifested as a combination
of internal confusion and external behavior changes.
Lack of Self Confidence
and Trust: Teens often doubt their own abilities,
judgements and decision. This is often rooted in their own value system and
principles.
Constant Comparison with Others: When Social comparisons become excessive
a deep sense of insecurity about their own worth crops up. At times they may
feel that they are lagging behind their peers or they are not up to the mark of
the idealized lives they see online.
Dissatisfaction with Self:
As a result of constant
comparison and self-doubt they are always unhappy and do no feel good enough leading
to a state of mental turmoil.
Isolation: The confusion and unhappiness cause a teenager to withdrawal
from others. This Social withdrawal is a defence mechanism to avoid judgement.
Frequent changes in thoughts and interests: A teen may try on different interests,
styles, friend groups trying to find out what fits him. This may be a natural
part of exploration but can become a source of
irritability.
Self-Discovery
The greatest solution to this
confusion is self-discovery which gives an opportunity to know the truth about themselves.
- Help recognize strength and weaknesses.
- Define values and beliefs.
- Gives confidence to choose right career and
relationships.
- Strengthens mental health enabling to face life challenges
with ease.
Practical Steps for Self-Discovery
- Spend 10 minutes daily writing your thoughts and feelings
to understand oneself better.
- Identify your interests what gives most joy and
satisfaction.
- Surround yourself with people who inspire and
encourage.
- Sets small goals to achieve big.
- Don’t hesitate to seek help.
Role of Parents and
Teachers
- Need
to be heard patiently.
- Their
emotions need to be accepted.
- Never
compare with others.
- Give
opportunity to make their own decisions. Mistakes will happen but not without giving bigger lessons in life.
Conclusion: Discovery self-identity is a
process and the journey may take substantial time to be achieved. If teenagers
are given proper support, open communication and develop self-awareness this
will become an opportunity for self-development. Therefore, identity crisis is
not an end but a beginning of self-discovery and self-growth.
Adv. Mamta Singh Shukla
Supreme Court of India
Mob. No. - 9560044035
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