What is the term for the phase in adolescence where individuals explore various roles before establishing an identity?

The term that describes the phase in adolescence where individuals actively explore different roles, beliefs, and ideas before settling on a definitive identity is known as "identity moratorium." During this period, adolescents engage in exploration without making a commitment to a particular identity. This exploratory phase allows them to experiment with various experiences, values, and social roles, which is critical for developing a well-rounded sense of self.

In contrast, identity foreclosure involves making a commitment to an identity without the exploration phase. Identity achievement would denote having gone through exploration and eventually making definitive commitments, while identity diffusion reflects a lack of both exploration and commitment, where individuals may feel lost or overwhelmed by the choices available to them. Understanding these terms is key to grasping the complexities of identity development during adolescence.