Identity in Conflict: The Impact of Internal and External Identity Perception on Desistance

• In Event: Criminal, Social, and Health Outcomes of Serious and Violent Youth

Abstract

Existing literature has established a relationship between identity change (toward a more positive, prosocial identity) and desistance from crime (Bachman et al., 2016; Giordano et al., 2007; Rocque et al., 2016). Applying labeling theory perspectives to the study of desistance, Maruna et al. (2004) argued that what facilitates desistance is not just a positive self-identity but the synchronicity between an individual’s positive self-perception of identity (e.g., as a prosocial individual) and their perception of how others view them. However, research has yet to address the impact of an “identity in conflict” on offending desistance. Thus, data from the Incarcerated Serious and Violent Young Offender Study were used to examine the impact of identity disconcordance on desistance. In line with Maruna et al.’s (2004) assertions, the reliable change index was used to evaluate whether identity synchronicity (i.e., alignment between self-perceived prosocial identity and others’ perceptions of this identity) facilitated desistance among male and female adjudicated youth followed through emerging adulthood. Results are used to emphasize the importance of addressing not only individual-level identity change, but also treatment and intervention strategies targeted at successful community reintegration via prosocial labeling (e.g., Strenta & DeJong, 1981).

Authors

• Kelsey Gushue, Simon Fraser University

• Evan McCuish, Simon Fraser University

• Raymond Corrado, Simon Fraser University