Defining Identity (Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies): Revision Note

Defining identity

• People have different identities that shape who they are and how they see the world

  • Identity can come from personal experiences, the groups we belong to, our nationality and even global issues that affect us all

• Your individual identity is what makes you, you

  • It is shaped by a mix of factors that affects people differently

• Examples of factors that shape individual identity include:

  • gender

  • family background

  • education

  • peer groups

  • ethnicity or race

  • religion or beliefs

  • where you were born and where you live

  • culture and traditions

  • social class

• The idea of nature vs nurture is often used to explain identity

  • Nature = characteristics you inherit at birth

  • Nurture = how you are raised and the environment around you

• Most people’s identity is a combination of both nature and nurture

Ethnic and religious identity

Ethnicity and identity

• Ethnicity refers to a person’s cultural background, such as shared language, traditions, history or ancestry

  • It influences how people see themselves and feel a sense of belonging

• People can have more than one ethnic influence

• Ethnicity can shape values, customs and daily life

  • For example, food, clothing, celebrations and family traditions

• Ethnicity can affect experiences in society

  • Some people feel pride and belonging, while others face stereotypes or discrimination

Religion and identity

• Religion refers to beliefs, practices and values linked to faith

  • It can shape morals, behaviour and life choices

• Religious beliefs can influence daily life and give a sense of belonging

  • For example, prayer, worship, dress, diet and behaviour

  • Faith communities offer support and shared values

• People follow religion in different ways

  • Some practise actively, while others identify culturally rather than by belief

Age and identity

• Age affects interests, responsibilities and how others treat you

• It shapes opportunities and rights

  • For example, voting, working hours and legal responsibilities change with age

• Young people often form identity through education and peer groups

  • School, friendships and social media influence views and behaviour

• Identity can change over time

  • Work, family and independence shape how people see themselves

Gender and identity

• Gender refers to how a person identifies and expresses themselves

  • This may be male, female or another gender identity

• Gender can influence expectations in society

  • People may face pressure to behave in certain ways based on gender stereotypes

• Gender identity can affect experiences and opportunities

  • Some people may experience inequality or discrimination because of their gender

• Attitudes towards gender have changed over time

  • Laws such as the Equality Act 2010 protect people from gender discrimination

Social and cultural identity

Social identity

• Social identity refers to the groups a person belongs to in society

  • This can include social class, friendship groups, school, their local neighbourhood or interests

• Social background can influence opportunities

  • For example, access to education, jobs and housing can affect life chances

• Social identity shapes how people see themselves and others

  • Belonging to a group can build confidence and a sense of identity

• Social identity can change over time

  • Moving area, changing schools or jobs can affect social identity

Cultural identity

• Cultural identity refers to shared traditions, customs and ways of life

  • This includes language, food, music, dress and celebrations

• Culture is often influenced by family and community

  • Cultural practices are passed down through generations

• Cultural identity can provide a sense of belonging

  • Shared culture helps people feel connected to others

• Cultural identity is not fixed

  • People may combine different cultures or choose how strongly they identify with them

Multiple identities

• Multiple identities means a person belongs to more than one group

• Different identities can be stronger in different situations

  • For example, age at school or work, and culture at home

• Identities can change over time

  • Education, work, relationships and migration shape identity

• Multiple identities reflect a diverse society

  • People cannot be defined by one characteristic

• Respecting multiple identities supports tolerance and community cohesion