Glynis Breakwell's Identity Process Theory (IPT)

Identity process theory (IPT), first conceptualized by Glynis Breakwell, is a comprehensive identity theory based on the assertion that people seek to build and sustain an identity (Breakwell, 1986; Breakwell, 2014). Identity is viewed as a dynamic structure produced by the interaction between cognitive capacities and social contexts, consisting of two dimensions: content and value (Breakwell, 1986; Breakwell, 2014). Content is the properties and characteristics believed to define oneself, such as group memberships, social labels, values, and attitudes, that shift depending on the circumstance but are continually present and cumulative across the lifespan (Breakwell, 1986). Content components are arranged hierarchically within identity structure according to their centrality and salience (Breakwell, 1986; Breakwell, 2014). This organization is inherently bound with the value dimension – the positive or negative value given to each component based on social beliefs and personal ideals (Breakwell, 1986). Values are subject to ongoing revision (Breakwell, 1986). Identity content and value are regulated by universal processes guided by core principles (Breakwell, 1986). When the processes and principles are at odds, one is said to experience identity threat, …show more content…
Assimilation and accommodation work as one; assimilation is the absorption of new content, accommodation the adjustment of existing components (Breakwell, 1986; Breakwell, 2014). The second process, evaluation, is the assignment of meaning and value to new and old content (Breakwell, 1986; Breakwell, 2014). The two processes are dependent upon one another, and their interaction produces the structure of identity (Breakwell, 1986). Identity processes are assumed to be universal and unchanging (Breakwell, 1986). However, they do not act on their own – they are guided by underlying principles (Breakwell,