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Human Development · Chapter 10

Marcia's Four Identity Statuses

James Marcia expanded Erikson's identity vs. role confusion stage into two questions: has the teen explored the options, and have they committed to a choice? Two answers, four statuses. Flip the switches — or drop in a real teen — and watch where they land.

Pick exploration & commitment

Marcia's identity mapset both axes to place a teen
Exploration — has the teen searched?
Commitment — has the teen chosen?
Or meet a teen — where do they belong?