identity crisis

American  

noun

1. a period or episode of psychological distress, often occurring in adolescence but sometimes in adulthood, when a person seeks a clearer sense of self and an acceptable role in society.

2. confusion as to goals and priorities.

   The company is undergoing an identity crisis.

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Etymology

Origin of identity crisis

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

identity crisis

While journalist Wangũi acknowledges it may not always be easy to have a female surname and it brings with it a certain "identity crisis", he is proud of his decision.

From BBC ● Jul. 11, 2026

According to Rebecca Nagle, a citizen of Cherokee Nation, a writer and journalist, and the host of the new podcast First America, the Founding Fathers initially faced an identity crisis.

From Slate ● Jul. 3, 2026

Nike stock has hit a 12-year low, in part because of an identity crisis: Some investors say it has strayed too far from performance sneakers into fashion.

From Barron's ● Apr. 16, 2026

An Israeli in Paris undergoes a strange, thrillingly unpredictable identity crisis in Nadav Lapid’s prize-winning third feature.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 3, 2026

My grandmother's identity crisis is fascinating and frightening at the same time, like a slasher movie you can't stop watching.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins