Lesson 2: Developing Personal Identity and Character Chapter 3 Lesson 2: Developing Personal Identity and Character

Your Personal Identity Personal Identity-your sense of yourself as a unique individual. Personal identity depends a lot on your age and circumstances. Certain parts of your identity are unique to you. Identity development is one of the most important tasks you will accomplish during your teen years. Do you think your personal identity will stay the same throughout your life, or do you think it will change?

How Identity Forms Your likes and dislikes Develop based on how your experiences fit with your values and beliefs Your relationships with others Identify a role model-someone whose successes or behavior serves as an example for you. Changes as your interests change Struggle at times, but eventually you will develop a clear sense of your own values, interests, beliefs, occupational goals, and relationship expectations.

Aspects of Identity-Personality Personality-a complex set of characteristics that make you unique. What characteristics make up your personality? Sets you apart from other people and determines how you will react in certain situations. Personality isn’t the only thing that identifies your personality. Your family, ethnic group, and even your close friends, define who you are too.

The Importance of Good Character An important part of your identity is your character-the distinctive qualities that describe how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Good character = healthy identity A person of good character demonstrates core ethical values. Responsibility Honesty Respect

Traits of Good Character Six traits are commonly used to describe good character. Demonstrating these traits consistently in your actions and behaviors, your show others that you have integrity-or firm observance of core ethical values.

Traits of Good Character Trustworthiness Respect Responsibility Fairness Caring Citizenship

Working Toward a Positive Identity- YOU control who you become. Recognize Your Strengths and Weaknesses Demonstrate Positive Values Be honest and realistic Evaluate weaknesses without being too critical, and set realistic goals to improve. Planning & commitment = Improving habits Practicing good character is not always easy, but it helps you build a positive identity. Example-honor students wanting to cheat on an exam Harm self-esteem, reputation, or both

Working Toward a Positive Identity- YOU control who you become. Develop a Purpose in Your Life Form Meaningful Relationships Helps set goals and achieve them Provides framework to build a healthy identity Family, friends, and others are crucial to development of your identity Support system Constructive criticism-non- hostile comments that point out problems and encourage improvement Example-Players relying on coaches for honest feedback

Working Toward a Positive Identity- YOU control who you become. Avoid Unhealthful Risk Behaviors Contribute to the Community Risk taking is part of life. Identify which risks are healthful and which are harmful. Community service is your extended support system. Provides services and resources to meet many of your needs. Volunteering = good citizen Improves the quality of peoples lives.

Tips for Promoting a Healthy Identity List your skills and strengths. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Find something that you love to do, and do it frequently. Stop making life a contest. Help someone else.