Self-identity

 Within social science disciplines the definition of identity has been explored since

the 1950's when E.H. Erickson first published his work about identity. Erikson's

definition of identity includes internal or psychological and external or sociological

dimensions. He defines identity as "an individual's awareness of the sameness and

continuity of his/her individuality as it relates to the sameness and continuity of one's

meaning for others" (Schwartz, 2001, p.8). This multidimensional definition of identity

includes three forms of identity that can co-exist and vary in significance over different

situations and points in time in an individual's life. Ego identity is "a person's

consciousness of individual identity and unconscious striving for continuity in character".

Personal identity consists of "goals values and beliefs that one shows the world". Social

identity is "sense of inner solidarity with a groups ideals" (Schwartz, 2001, p. 10).

 With these broad and inclusive definitions of identity, Erikson sets the stage for

research addressing theory and methodology related to identity among social scientists.

Numerous definitions and theoretical models try understanding and determining the

meaning of identity within different contexts. Research related to physical activity,

voting behavior and use of physician use of telemedicine or information technologies

examine the influence of identity on behavior (Jackson, Smith Conner, 2003; Gramberg

& Holmberg, 1990; Ellis, Robb, Burke, 2005; Gagnon, et al, 2003).

 Psychologists have diverged into two different groups when discussing and

researching identity. The first group focuses on the social components that influence

self-identity. Styker defines identity as a part of social orientation and influences or "the

linkages of social structures with identities" (Styker & Burke, 2002, p. 287). Burke

focuses on the "internal process of self-verification" (Styker & Burke, 2002, p.288).