Edwin has just started his third year in university, and he is still exploring the options for his major. He has taken a number of courses with the intention of obtaining a law degree, but last semester he also discovered he was very interested in geology. He feels it is important to reach a final decision before the end of the semester, and he has started investigating both career options in great detail. What state does this represent, according to James Marcia?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Edwin is in the moratorium state according to James Marcia's theory. This is a period of exploration and active questioning of identity, where one may be trying out different options before reaching a final decision. This is different from foreclosure, which is a state of commitment without exploration, diffusion, which is a lack of commitment or direction, and postponement, which is a delay in making a decision.

Edwin Has Just Started His Third Year in University, and He