ABSTRACT
The simplest distinction would be that a personal identity is the definition of the self to oneself and a social identity is assigned by others. Social identity is the definition by others of our taking a role. Presentation is the mode of enacting a role in order to receive social definitions of an intended personal identity. Learning how to comprehend expectations and take roles through the negotiation of contracts and agreements is basic to social interaction. Piaget analyzed how changes in cognitive ability are met with new social competence. Despite many changes in sex role socialization, relatively research supports findings of differences between boys and girls. Significant others, especially partners, have expectations of sex-appropriate behavior that shape the self-definitions of children in their earliest consciousness. When the requirements of a job have been mastered for years and there seems little chance for enlargement of scope, then different social spaces may be sought for investment and enhancement of selfhood.
