What do we know about identity processes and how does this relate to the world we live in?

This book answers this question by considering the contemporary major developments in identity process theory – a framework founded by the author in the 1980s for understanding the coping strategies used when identity is threatened. With a focus on issues ranging from group conflict to dementia and mental illness, as well as contemporary events and phenomena such as the rise of the Digital Era and the COVID-19 pandemic, Identity explores how building and defending a unique identity motivates our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Breakwell brings together ideas of personal identity and social identity to show us how they intersect with one another.

This book is essential reading for psychology students and researchers, and those interested in the concept of identity in the social sciences more broadly.

Dame Glynis M. Breakwell is Professor Emeritus at the University of Bath and has Visiting Professorships at Imperial College, London and University of Surrey.