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

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

He now finds himself facing a daunting new challenge: Helming one of the country’s top law firms in its throes of an identity crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Now she was also dealing with the strain and fatigue of the ice show schedule as well as an identity crisis.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

Struggling with depression, an identity crisis and unresolved childhood wounds, he retreated to a bedroom in a rented New Jersey house to confront it all.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2025

Spring has decided to go through an identity crisis and get chilly on me.

From "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas