Understanding the Meaning of Identification, Know its Definition in Psychology and Social Field

Kapanlagi.com - Identification may be a familiar term for some people. However, for some people, the meaning of identification may still feel unfamiliar. This is because identification is not a commonly used word and does not appear in everyday conversations. The word identification usually only appears and is used in discussion or conversation situations that discuss a certain topic.

Although not a common word, understanding the meaning of identification is still important to know. Not only as additional general knowledge, understanding the definition of identification may also be useful in everyday life. Because identification is closely related to the ability to recognize oneself.

So, what is the meaning of identification? To find out, just read the following explanation that has been summarized from various sources.

1. What is the Meaning of Identification?

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One of the easiest ways to answer the question of what is the meaning of identification is to check it in the dictionary. In the Great Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), identification is defined as a means of self-recognition or proof of identity. Furthermore, identification is also defined as the determinant or establishment of someone's identity, objects, and so on.

Meanwhile, KBBI also explains that a more comprehensive understanding of identification can be found in the field of psychology. In psychology, the meaning of identification is defined as a psychological process that occurs within oneself. This process occurs because unconsciously, one imagines oneself as someone else they admire, and then continues by imitating the behavior of the person they admire.

In short, identification is one of the psychological processes that occur in everyday life. In addition, identification can also manifest as an interaction between personal and social identities. Therefore, it can be concluded that identification is a concept related to self-identity that also involves others.

2. Meaning of Identification According to Experts

As a psychological process experienced by every individual, identification becomes interesting and important to observe. Therefore, several experts pay special attention to this psychological process, resulting in more specific definitions. Here are some expert opinions on the meaning of identification.

1. Chaplin

The first opinion on identification comes from Chaplin. According to him, identification is a process of recognition. This process is done by placing an object or individual in a class according to its characteristics.

2. Poerwadarminto

Meanwhile, Poerwadarminto defines identification as a process of determining or establishing the identity of a person or object based on its characteristics.

3. Sudarsono

Sudarsono provides three meanings for identification, namely self-evidence, a psychological process that occurs in someone because they unconsciously imagine themselves as someone they admire, and determining someone based on evidence as a guide.

3. Meaning of Identification in the Field of Psychology

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As previously mentioned, the meaning of identification is closely related to the field of psychology. As a psychological process, identification is a stage that is experienced by every individual. In a deeper sense, identification becomes a psychological orientation of oneself in relation to something, such as with other individuals or specific groups that are related. This connection can be emotionally close.

Interestingly, identification often becomes something that is done unconsciously. This means that identification can occur automatically when someone models thoughts, feelings, and actions after those associated with an object that has been incorporated as a mental image. Through the process of identification, an individual assimilates various aspects, properties, or attributes of others.

A more detailed explanation of the meaning of identification in the field of psychology can be found in the APA Dictionary of Psychology. In the APA Dictionary of Psychology, identification is defined as the process of closely associating oneself with other individuals and their characteristics or views.

For example, a baby automatically becomes part of its mother; a child gradually adopts attitudes, standards, and personality traits from their parents; as a teenager, they take on characteristics of their peer group; and as an adult, they identify themselves with a profession or other aspects.

4. Meaning of Identification in the Social Field

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Identification not only occurs in the personal psychological realm. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, identification can also occur in the social field. At this stage, the meaning of identification is closely related to social identity theory. This theory explains that an individual's sense of self originates from perceived membership in relevant social groups.

In addition, social identity can be defined as an individual's knowledge of belonging to a particular social group. This knowledge includes various emotional significance and evaluations of membership in a group.

At this level, identification becomes an important stage for individuals to find values that can be enjoyed in their lives. The process of social identification is usually carried out by identifying relationships, projects, jobs, and goals, so that life can run smoothly. In addition, identification occurs when someone adjusts to the demands of certain social roles in society.

Those are some explanations of the meaning of identification. Hopefully, it will be useful and can broaden your knowledge.

(kpl/gen/psp)