Personal Identity

Definition

Personal identity encompasses the totality of representations, beliefs, and inner images that a person has about their uniqueness and individuality. It relates to the individual's awareness of who they are and reflects self-perception, roles, and personal values.

In NLP, personal identity is viewed as a dynamic construct shaped by experiences, beliefs, and interaction with others. According to Lucas Derks (1995), personal identity can be expressed in language in various ways, e.g.:

“I am X” (Identification with certain traits).
“I have X” (Possession of certain traits).
“I do X” (Actions as expressions of identity).
“I want X” (Wants as part of identity).
“I am not X” (Distinction from certain traits).
“I am more than X” (Integration of different aspects of identity).

Origins and Theoretical Background

The idea of personal identity is deeply rooted in psychology, particularly in the work of Erik Erikson on identity development. In NLP, the concept is operationalized through a focus on representation systems and beliefs.

In the 1990s, Lucas Derks studied the linguistic expressions of identity and expanded the understanding of personal identity to include the dimension of social perception. He emphasized that language not only reflects personal identity but also actively shapes it.

Application Examples

Personal Development: A person who defines themselves as “insecure” (“I am insecure”) learns through NLP techniques to develop alternative identity statements like “I am curious and willing to learn.”
Career Coaching: A client strongly identifies with their professional role (“I am a manager”) and is encouraged through coaching to expand their identity and include other facets of their life.
Relationship work: A partner who strongly defines themselves through the relationship (“I am XY's partner”) realizes how important it is to also develop an individual identity outside of the relationship.

Areas of Application

Therapy: Addressing identity crises or negative self-definition.
Coaching: Support in redefining professional or personal identities.
Communication Training: Promoting authentic and clear self-expression.
Leadership Training: Developing a coherent self-understanding as a leader.
Personal Development: Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs about one's identity.

Methods and Exercises

Reflection on identity statements: Clients are encouraged to note their statements about themselves (“I am...”, “I have...”) and critically question whether these statements are supportive or limiting.
Reframing identity: A negative self-image (“I am insignificant”) is replaced by alternative perspectives (“I am unique and contribute my part”).
Visual timeline work: The client visualizes different phases of their life to develop a more comprehensive understanding of their identity and to let go of past imprints.
Working with logical levels: Identity is considered in the context of values, beliefs, abilities, and behaviors to strengthen a consistent and supportive identity.

Synonyms or Related Terms

Self-Image
Subjective Identity
Role Identity
Individual Uniqueness

Scientific or Practical Benefit

Promoting self-reflection: Engaging with personal identity helps uncover unconscious beliefs and patterns.
Strengthening resilience: A positive identity contributes to emotional stability.
Facilitating behavioral change: A changed self-image can enable new actions and decisions.
Promoting Authenticity: People develop a life that aligns with their true identity.

Criticism or Limitations

A strong focus on personal identity can lead to neglecting social or cultural dimensions.
Deeply rooted beliefs are often difficult to change and require longer processes of self-reflection and support.
Critics argue that the concept of identity in NLP remains subjective and is not always scientifically grounded.

Literature and References

Derks, L. (1995). Social Panoramas: Changing the Unconscious Landscape with NLP. Crown House Publishing, Camerthen.
Dilts, R. (1990). Changing Belief Systems with NLP. Meta Publications, Capitola.
Erikson, E.H. (1968). Identity: youth and crisis. W. W. Norton and Company, New York.