Professional Identity Formation in the Transition to Adulthood

Professional identity, an essential component in the transition of young people towards professional and personal maturity, has been the subject of extensive research. According to Erik Erikson’s theory, identity represents the foundation for integrating life experiences into a coherent structure, ensuring stability amidst contextual changes. James Marcia expanded this theory by introducing the essential dimensions of exploration and commitment, identifying four identity statuses: diffuse, foreclosed, moratorium, and achieved. In this study, we analyzed the influence of gender and educational level on the formation of professional identity, based on a sample of 437 young individuals, using an adapted and validated instrument for this purpose. The results indicated significant differences between genders and educational levels, with boys being more inclined towards diffuse or foreclosed identities, while girls showed a stronger tendency for active exploration. At the university level, a well-defined professional identity was more pronounced, highlighting the importance of educational trajectory in clarifying professional directions.