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Work and Identity Flexibility

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Identity Flexibility During Adulthood

Abstract

This chapter considers the turbulence of today's work environment and how its uncertainty requires flexibility in employees' identities.  Erik Erikson's concept of identity and distinctions between identity and identification are focal as the backdrop against which the potential reconstitution of a more malleable, reconstituted identity is examined. Three ways in which workers can reshape their work-based identities are explored, those of knowledge upgrading, adapting to changing role functions, and transitioning to positions that may better express their identity needs.  Self efficacy, flexibility, and openness to experience are emphasized as attributes that make workers more attractive to current organizations and to potential employers.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA

    Carol Hoare

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  1. Carol Hoare
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Correspondence to Carol Hoare .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Towson University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA

    Jan D. Sinnott

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Hoare, C. (2017). Work and Identity Flexibility. In: Sinnott, J. (eds) Identity Flexibility During Adulthood. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-55658-1_12

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