Abstract

The issue of identity is particularly relevant at the primary school age when school enrolment gives a child new opportunities for developing his personality, self-comprehension, and social relationships. Most research on identity development is based on Erikson’s (1968) theory of identity. Inconsistent results regarding the changes that occur over time in identity statuses have led researchers to turn to a deeper analysis of how identity develops. The purpose of the study is to analyze recent studies in the field of personal identity formation in primary school students. Analysis results indicate a scarcity of studies on the investment of personal identity in schoolchildren. The results of the systematic analysis of the studies led to the establishment of two research directions: the development of personal identity, the identification of the relationship between personal identity and other components.

Key words: Content analysis; personal identity; primary school students; systematic review