Identity is the qualities, beliefs, personality traits, appearance, and/or expressions that characterize a person or a group.[note 1]
Identity emerges during childhood as children start to comprehend their self-concept, and it remains a consistent aspect throughout different stages of life. Identity is shaped by social and cultural factors and how others perceive and acknowledge one´s characteristics. The etymology of the term "identity" from the Latin noun identitas emphasizes an individual´s mental image of themselves and their "sameness with others". Identity encompasses various aspects such as occupational, religious, national, ethnic or racial, gender, educational, generational, and political identities, among others.
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