Doing identity: a social pattern analysis exploring the process of identity construction and maintenance
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Campion, Lisa M..
Doing identity: a social pattern analysis exploring the process of identity construction and maintenance. Retrieved from
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TitleDoing identity: a social pattern analysis exploring the process of identity construction and maintenance
Date Created2019
Other Date2019-10 (degree)
Extent1 online resource (vii, 287 pages)
DescriptionAnchored in the tradition of symbolic-interactionism, this project explores identity as a social construct created and maintained by individuals through the continuous identity work they perform in conjunction with others; an accomplishment realized through “doing.” While scholars have explored this notion of doing identity across a host of substantive areas that interrogate a diverse array of identities, much of this work has been specialized, often focusing exclusively on one particular identity. These type-by-type analyses have contributed to a vast, rich body of literature on the subject while leaving the door open for insights best gleaned through a broader approach to the study of identity, one that is not restricted to the consideration of one particular identity but rather, one that draws comparisons across a diverse range of identities. Applying this more expansive multicontextual approach, my project is designed to contribute to a more complete understanding of the topic as I explore how doing identity operates as a generalizable, generic social process.
Through forty-eight in-depth, qualitative interviews conducted among individuals connected to diverse identities (i.e., chronic illness, parent of exceptional child, fan and religious leader), my work utilizes social pattern analysis to identify generic patterns of doing identity that transcend identity type. My research demonstrates that, regardless of identity affiliation, individuals construct, sustain and experience identities in similar ways. I identify two central concepts that are part of this generic process of doing -- identity routines and identity club membership. As part of affiliation with any identity, individuals perform identity routines, where they coordinate and implement the components of identity work in support of their particular identities; regardless of identity type, these routines are characterized by a range of intensity that reflects the investment, restraint and visibility associated with individuals’ identity work. With identity affiliation, individuals also become members of identity clubs, and the experience of club membership is similar for identity workers regardless of their particular club affiliation; individuals are exposed to similar hallmarks of identity as they experience member orientation, have responsibilities as club members, take advantage of club benefits and face potential membership drawbacks. By illuminating this generic process of identity work, my work enhances our understanding of the social aspect of identity as it demonstrates that as identity workers, individuals share powerful connections through the implementation of standard identity routines and experiences of identity.
NotePh.D.
NoteIncludes bibliographical references
Genretheses, ETD doctoral
LanguageEnglish
CollectionSchool of Graduate Studies Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Organization NameRutgers, The State University of New Jersey
RightsThe author owns the copyright to this work.
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