ABSTRACT
In reviewing the general dimensions of the perspectives taken in psychology and sociology to the study of self and identity, we noted that for the most part, these perspectives have evolved from similar origins into distinct analytical and methodological efforts. This need not be considered an unfortunate state of affairs for social science, given that the construct of identity is a multidimensional one, but it is a circumstance that creates the need for communication and cooperation among the relevant disciplines if attempts to synthesize perspectives and research findings are to be successful. Given the current state of the field, however, we must respond to several basic questions if the synthetic work required for the study of identity and agency is to begin. For example: What exactly is the self, precisely what is identity, and what is the difference between the two? What are the rudiments of a theory of the agentic personality? How are we to understand the relationships among ego, personal and social identity, self, and reflexive consciousness, in our attempts to answer these questions? In this chapter, we delve into the complexities of the various conceptualizations and definitions of self and identity.
