4 Levels of Identity

            The four kinds of identity are foreclosed identity, achieved identity, diffused identity, and moratorium. These identity issues are unique and useful because they are not tied directly to any stage of life. These can be interchanged at various points of different people’s lives. These come out as a part of experience, rather than specifically because of age. A foreclosed identity is one, which involves a decision that was made without much prior thought. This identity can be thrust upon a person or done with little thought. A diffused identity is one that a person is not very committed to; they essentially do it for no reason. This identity can easily be influenced or altered by others. Moratorium is a state of identity where a person is fascinated with potential identities and studies them thoroughly. But this individual makes no commitment to doing anything. Achieved identity is the highest level of identity; this identity is thought about and committed to by an individual. This is essentially a person doing what they have learned and are interested in doing. These identity levels are necessary because they can be interchangeable at various points  in life and can be reached multiple times during a person’s life.

            Context mapping is similar to an ecomap in social work. A context map is a visual representation of a person’s relationships and activities, focusing on how they are interconnected. It is important to know how different parts of an individual’s life are connected.

Higgins Home Life: Mom, Dad, Brother

Higgins Student Life: Professors, Classmates

Higgins RA Life: Thorp Staff, Thorp Residents, All Staff

Higgins RSA Life: Alex (Advisor), E-Board Members, General Members, NRHH

Higgins Ultimate Life: Captains, Teammates, Coach Gibb, Friends in the community, Opponents, Spectators
Social Higgins: Old Friends (little contact), RIC Friends (lots of contact), Family, Co-Workers 

Higgins Work Life: Supervisors, Co-Workers, Clients, Support Staff