Abstract:
The article brings us closer to the understanding of the cultural context of identity formation during the adolescence. The presented researches are based on the theories of E. Erikson (1970, 1982) and J. Marcia (1966) which create the foundation for the interpretation of specificity of this process among girls and boys. The sample consists of 80 pupils of primary and secondary schools, 40 girls and 40 boys, aged 13-19. In research semistandarized interview was used to establish the general identity status and identity statuses in seven areas of activity. The obtained results show the higher level of identity among girls than boys.
The discussion is concerned on the specificity of Polish culture which is described on Masculinity - Femininity dimension. Many of cultural elements emphasize the value
of femininity and extend chances of women for achieving the identity. The Polish culture promotes the development of men less than women.
