identitet

Identitet, or identity, is the sense of self and the set of attributes, affiliations, and roles through which a person defines themselves and is recognized by others. It comprises personal identity—the continuity of a self over time—and social identity—the aspects derived from group membership, such as nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, profession, and culture. Identity is dynamic and can change across life events and contexts.

People construct identity through narrative and social interaction. Markers such as name, age, gender, ethnicity, beliefs, values, and experiences help situate a person within communities, while personal ideals and life stories shape their self-understanding. Identity can be multifaceted and intersecting, with different identities more or less salient in different situations.

The study of identity spans several disciplines. In philosophy, questions about numerical identity and psychological or bodily continuity address what makes someone the same person over time. In psychology and developmental psychology, identity formation and exploration—often emphasized during adolescence—are linked to stages of development and to identity crises. In sociology and anthropology, social identity theory and cultural construction examine how group membership influences self-concept and social behavior.

In practical terms, identity matters for law and technology. Legal identity refers to official recognition by authorities, enabling access to rights and services. Digital identity encompasses online credentials and authentication. Ongoing concerns include privacy, discrimination, and identity theft, underscoring the importance of reliable identity verification and secure handling of personal data.