Researchers have begun to understand that a person’s identity not only defines a person, but it also frequently determines a person’s place in the social structure of the community. For example, McDonald (2009) has noted that identity brings with it a set of opportunities (or a lack of opportunities).
In this assignment, we will be exploring the ways that identity influences risk and resilience processes.
To begin, read over the following article:
Chen, J., Lau, C., Tapanya, S., & Cameron, C. (2012). Identities as protective processes: Socio-
ecological perspectives on youth resilience. Journal Of Youth Studies, 15(6), 761-779.
Next, think back over the major messages about identity from your GE Area D1 and/or SJSU Studies Area S classes
Specifically for Area D1: Identify the dynamics of ethnic, cultural, gender/sexual, age-based, class, regional, national, transnational, and global identities and the similarities,
differences, linkages, and interactions between them and how this concept relates to and influences risk and protective factors.
Specifically for Area S: Describe how identities (i.e. religious, gender, ethnic, racial, class, sexual orientation, disability, and/or age) are shaped by cultural and societal influences within contexts of equality and inequality and how this concept relates to and influences risk and protective factors.
Thus, in this approximately one page (about 250 to 300 words) essay, you will reflect on the ways that different configurations of identity can potentially increase risk, decrease risk, promote protective factors, or deter protective factors. You may choose to discuss your own identity, the identity of someone you know (use a fake name), make up profiles, or discuss these ideas in the abstract. However you choose to approach the assignment, the goal is to explore the impact of identity on risk and resilience at the individual, family, and community levels.
Your essay will be assessed on: The quality of the writing, the quality of the ideas and explanation, understanding of identity, and the degree to which identity is effectively linked to risk and resilience.