Complex identities in ethical social work practice and research

5Identity, a socially constructed concept, makes sense of who we are, and how we relate to others and define our places in the world, including the physical environment. Identity formation and maintenance are complex, transactional relationships negotiated through interpersonal interactions and constantly adapting to the people we meet. Identity is culturally specific and changes through exchanges between and across cultures. Identity formation is fluid, dynamic, and reproduced through interaction with others. Identity is negotiated through power relations to create feelings of "belonging" and acceptance in specific situations and locales. Being accepted as belonging establishes an individual's and community's entitlement to human rights in society through social inclusion and exclusion processes. Working with those who do not "belong", social workers aware of the impact of the social construction of identity should treat people with respect and dignity and provide necessary services.