In Search of a Lost Identity: Iranian Women and Their Identity Issues

Using the data from the lives of two Iranian women, I focus on how context and self impact the process of identity formation. My aim of the present study is to empower and emancipate women by highlighting the significance of knowing who they are and holding on to their dreams, values, and choices especially when the social and family contexts are limiting and oppressive. Elaborating on the concept of identity and its significance for human development, I discuss the life stories of the two Iranian women and their major challenges. I explain how they gradually dissociated from who they were and wanted to be as they readily gave in and underestimated the power of self. I conclude by sharing my own experiences and providing some suggestions for finishing strong