Identity and Belonging

Abstract

Identity is a paradox where the one and the many combine. The examination of identity’s different dimensions consists of taking it from the point of view of action, from the point of view of narration and the dialogic relationship between the individual and their sense of belonging. The latter point of view requires the specifying of a link between nature and culture at the same time. Identity is at the interface between social space and self-space. In social space, some invariances define primary belonging, while some secondary belonging expresses the possibility of change. It implies a certain flexibility between two types of belonging. It is the self-space that allow for this flexibility. The self-space is studied from a developmental point of view. The way it is built up in early interactions leads to consider four core elements: body image, quality of attachments, sex, filiation. Today, these different elements are more or less destabilized due to variations of cultural context. This results in an increased fragility of identity. This, in turn, often leads family therapists to address these fragilities and design consolidations through intersubjective bonds.