Theo and Rochelle are the parents of 18-year-old Jayce. To those outside of the immediate family, Jayce seems to lack direction; he does not apply himself at school and has not explored any alternatives for his future. When asked what he wants to do with his life, Jayce shrugs his shoulders and mutters that he'll have plenty of time to be an adult when he's older. Jayce has had several part-time jobs but he either quits or gets fired for poor performance and not showing up. He avoids talking about work, school, or the future and seems indifferent to those who try to motivate him. Jayce has been caught in the basement of his home smoking and drinking with his friends. He was also escorted home a few months ago by a police officer who broke up an underage party with alcohol. Theo and

Question

Rochelle believe that Jayce is just a typical teenager and that he'll eventually grow up and become more responsible. Which identity status best fits Jayce? Are Theo and Rochelle correct that Jayce will likely grow out of this phase? Why or why not?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Jayce is demonstrating characteristics of identity diffusion. He has neither committed to an identity nor explored alternatives. He tends to avoid problems, has academic difficulties, is apathetic, and is involved with substance use. Theo and Rochelle should be concerned about Jayce's behavior, as the diffusion identity status is associated with passivity and maladaptive long-term outcomes. Diffusion is the least mature form of identity. While it is developmentally appropriate for young adolescents, in late adolescence it is indicative of maladjustment.