Today, we consider #2: Instability.

Another reason Identity Achievement is so elusive for so many adolescents and young adults is because the stability that underlies this (most mature) status is not an inherent characteristic of adolescence and young adulthood.

How so? Well, adolescence, by its very definition, concerns development leading to maturity.

So after late childhood, adolescents have hopefully identified where some of their strengths and talents lie, via school subjects, extracurricular activities, and/or having pursued their interests on their own.

Teens may then begin exploring where such strengths and interests may lead them. This unpredictable process of exploration, or trying on different selves, is the sine qua non of modern adolescence.  

Yet trekking over shaky ground is a necessary, but not sufficient, condition of Identity Achievement. Achievement requires commiting to a stable destination as well.