Eudaimonic Identity Theory: Identity as Self-Discovery

Abstract

Work on eudaimonistic identity theory began in an effort to answer the question: How is an individual trying to answer identity-related questions to know which of the many identity alternatives available is the “better” choice to make? Central to eudaimonistic philosophy is the construct of the daimon or “true self,” those potentials of each individual that represent the best that the person is able to become. “Living in truth to the daimon” is said to give rise to a particular form of happiness, termed eudaimonia, a set of subjective experiences I have labeled “feelings of personal expressiveness” (Waterman, 1990, 1993). In this chapter, I briefly review philosophical perspectives regarding the daimon and eudaimonia, starting with their origins in classical Hellenic philosophy, most notably in Aristotle’s Nichomachean Ethics, and in the work of contemporary eudaimonistic philosophers and personality theorists. The constructs and principles of eudaimonistic identity theory are also presented. The goal of identity formation is identified as discovering the nature of one’s daimon and includes (a) the discovery of personal potentials, (b) choosing one’s purposes in living, and (c) finding opportunities to act upon those potentials and purposes in living. Marcia’s identity status paradigm is discussed as providing descriptions of the various ways in which individuals address the task of identity formation and the implications of the processes involved for the likelihood of achieving a successful outcome. Further, I propose that the construct of intrinsic motivation is central to understanding the how individuals come to recognize those personal potentials that represent better outcomes to the task of identity formation. Feelings of personal expressiveness (eudaimonia), flow, interest, and hedonic enjoyment constitute a constellation of subjective component experienced when engaged in intrinsically motivated activities. Important contextual predictors of intrinsic motivation include self-determination, a balance of challenges and skills, opportunities to act upon self-realization values, and effort. The contributions of these subjective experiences and predictors to the goals and processes of identity formation will be explored.