Abstract

Identity conflict is a widespread phenomenon which can be harmful to both individual and society. This seeks to clarify the concept of Identity Conflict by developing a conceptual framework that reveals its foundational antecedents and consequences. It establishes that Identity Conflict significantly influences both societal dynamics and individual mental health, particularly through the importance of fostering positive relationships with various groups and oneself, which contribute to social stability. However, existing literature indicates that relatively few studies have evaluated the contribution of identity to societal stability and mental well-being. This conceptual paper presents a model developed through a comprehensive and critical review of multidisciplinary literature, guided by Social Identity Theory as the primary theoretical lens. This perspective offers a coherent framework for understanding how individual and social factors interact to shape identity conflict. The review identifies various precursors to identity conflict, including social factors like cultural background and social expectations, individual factors such as self-recognition, personal experiences, and psychological traits, as well as environmental influences like the digital environment. The findings reveal a potential positive link between identity management, societal stability, and mental health. A comprehensive conceptual framework is presented, accompanied by a detailed summary table that encapsulates key insights. This thorough analysis lays a strong foundation for understanding how these factors affect societal stability and mental health, enhancing the understanding of how human communication functions as a strategic management tool. Additionally, the managerial insights offered can assist communication and information professionals in identifying key guidelines for designing and implementing effective strategies to address identity-related challenges.