Abstract
This paper examined identity formation in adolescence from the viewpoint of relatedness in interpersonal contexts. Based on a review of the literature on adolescent identity formation and other areas, a framework which emphasized relatedness was outlined, and the notion of identity was considered in relation to three points. First, researchers have to recognize that studying the way adolescents relate to others gives important insight into how adolescents form their own identity. Second, the process of identity formation consists of recognizing one's own viewpoint, internalizing others' viewpoints, and resolving disagreement between viewpoints through self/other mutual regulation. "Exploration" is the work of identity formation, and may be defined as a problem-solving process in which people make decisions about important life choices by considering, making use of, and negotiating with others. Third, social cognitive developments in adolescence are assumed to be the basis of the identity formation process. Finally, based on this examination, future research implications were discussed.
