Identity is a psychic prison, but one which we cannot do without. How far is this true in your life?

Identity has been defined as the distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity (cited from www.dictionary.com). This essay will seek to explore the nature of identity and in particular examine the statement in regards to the two assertions it infers- that ones identity is unique and that it endures in a stable way. The notion of a psychic prison will be examined in relation to these assumptions and various perspectives of viewing identity including symbolic interactionism, behaviourist, post-modern, psychoanalytical and systems theory and will be taken in relation to personal experience and popular culture….(short extract)