Identity is multidimensional and changes with the situation. Personal identity is who we are and who we want to be.
Social identity consists of different roles and group memberships, in which case the person's self-perception is determined by belonging to a specific category. The categories may include, for example, gender, nation or ethnic group. The senses of belonging and the meanings vary depending on the context and life situation.
A well-formed identity and being respected as an individual and the person you wish to define yourself as lay a solid foundation for choices made by listening to yourself and for healthy relationships. The aim of early childhood education and care (ECEC) and teaching is to support the formation and strengthening of each child's own identity.