ABSTRACT
Academics are strongly influenced by their sense of identity. However, unlike many professions where there is a clear view of what the role and career trajectory are likely to encompass, academe is a complicated construct that evolves over time and can be reshaped by different experiences, influences and choices (Dowd 2005; Ylijoki and Henriksson 2015). Over the course of an academic career, there can be many different identities that are tested, adopted and refined as experience, contextual forces and circumstances forge different paths. In some cases, there are also conflicting identities that must somehow be integrated. This chapter outlines some of the ways in which academic identity operates, and the different processes by which identity constructs are shaped. It demonstrates the critical importance of being attuned to these insights when working as a higher education developer or leader, as each participant’s identity will guide their commitment, engagement and motivation. Mentors can also play a key role in guiding self-reflections on identity.
