Identity (social science)

Identity in the social sciences refers to how people define themselves and are defined by others through personal traits, social roles, and group memberships.

Identity in the social sciences refers to how people define themselves and are defined by others through personal traits, social roles, and group memberships. It is studied as both an individual sense of self and a socially constructed category.

What it is

Identity is commonly described as the answer to questions like “Who are you?” or “Who am I?” In social science, it can mean a person’s self-concept, a social category, or a socially meaningful characteristic. It includes dimensions such as nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, occupation, and political affiliation.

Personal vs. Social Identity

Personal identity refers to unique individual traits and values, while social identity comes from membership in groups such as nationality, religion, or occupation. Social identity theory examines how these two forms of identity influence perception, behaviour, and self-concept.

Why identity matters

In psychology, identity helps organize self-understanding, guide goals, and provide a sense of continuity over time. In sociology and social psychology, identity is shaped by social interaction, institutions, culture, and shared meanings. It can change across contexts and over time, making it central to understanding individuals and societies.