Test: Identity

The term identity comes from and refers to the relationship that each individual has with themselves. This arises on the one hand through self-awareness or self-reflexivity, but also through with other people. Identity is therefore constructed through both by oneself and by others, which include various characteristics such as name, age, gender, origin, nationality, culture, , sexual orientation, political views and others. In addition, factors, the environment, upbringing and socialisation as well as one’s own experiences play an important role in the formation of identity. Identity-forming characteristics can change consciously or unconsciously over the course of an individual’s life as a result of various influences, which is why identity is not a fixed state but a fluid process. In addition to the personal identity of the individual, there is a identity of groups. However, these two do not form opposites or can be completely separated from each other, as each personal identity also encompasses different group affiliations and in turn helps to shape these groups. On the one hand, identity can be characterised by signs such as facial expressions, gestures, posture and body movements, proxemics (spatial behaviour), clothing and furnishing styles and much more. On the other hand, identity is largely created through communication.