1. Developing Personal Identity and Character
Lesson 2
Developing Personal Identity and Character

2. Your Personal Identity
Your sense of yourself as a unique individual
Age, circumstances
Identity development is key in your teen years
Identity is formed by
Your likes and dislikes
Relationships with family and friends
Role Model
Someone whose success or behavior serves as a an example for you
Identity will change throughout your life as your interests change
You will struggle at times with your identity but eventually you will develop a clear sense of your own values, interests, beliefs, occupational goals, and relationship expectations

3. Aspects of Identity Personality Sets you apart from other people
A complex set of characteristics that makes you unique
Sets you apart from other people
Determines how you will react in certain situations
Other unique qualities of your identity include:
Relationships with your family, your ethnic group, and friends

4. The Importance of Good Character
The distinctive qualities that describe how a person thinks, feels, and behaves
Good character is an outward expression of inner values
Core Ethical Values
Responsibility, Honesty, Respect

5. Traits of Good Character
Integrity
A firm observance of core ethical values
You practice consistently these 6 traits:
Trustworthiness
Honest, loyal, reliable, courage to do the right thing
Respect
Considerate of others, accept differences, good manners, care, make decisions that respect your health and others
Responsibility
Self-control, accountable, try your best
Fairness
Play by the rules, take turns, share, open minded, listen to others
Caring
Kind, compassionate, express gratitude, forgiving, want to help
Citizenship
Advocate for a safe and healthy environment, obey rules and laws, respect authority

6. Working Toward a Positive Identity
Recognize Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Be honest and realistic
Demonstrate Positive Values
Develop a Purpose in Your Life
Set goals, short-term and long-term
Form Meaningful Relationships
Constructive criticism
Non-hostile comments that point out problems and encourage improvement
Avoid Unhealthful High-Risk Behaviors
Take healthy risks
Contribute to the Community
Extended support system, use it!