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

Most Angelenos know Frank Gehry as the rebel architect whose deconstructivist buildings reinvigorated L.A. amid its late-century identity crisis.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 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

Some shoppers say the brand is having an identity crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 29, 2025

For a restaurant better known for cornbread and checkerboards than market volatility, the whole thing had the air of an identity crisis unfolding in real time.

From Salon • Aug. 22, 2025

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