Identity is one's sense of self-definition that expresses who and what one really is.
To Erikson, this identity is formed through the trying on of various roles and ideologies, and subsequently committing oneself to a particular role and its associated ideology. Although some identity crises may be traumatic, most proceed gradually, and are better recognized for the uncertainty that seems to mark this process than by extreme psychological turmoil. Erikson argues that identity is more than a summation of previously held roles. Identity achievement requires an integration of a more complex nature. The process seems to necessarily include both experiences that help the individual clarify interests, abilities and beliefs, and experiences which help the individual make commitments.