Bridging the Gaps: Advancing the Communication Theory of Identity

Abstract

ABSTRACT Extending the focus and scope of the communication theory of identity (CTI), this paper introduces a new theoretical construct within CTI’s interpenetration of frames – identity bridging. Theoretical extensions of CTI have established identity gaps, which are inconsistencies between individuals’ personal, enacted, relational, communal, and material identities. Identity bridges represent individuals’ responses to identity gaps. Identity bridging consists of psychological, behavioral, and communicative responses to identity gaps. This paper aims to define identity bridging, outline how past literature advocates the validity of the new construct, examine how identity bridging can be integrated into CTI, explore the relationship between identity gaps and identity bridging, propose extensions to CTI’s current assumptions, and discuss implications and future research directions.