Gabriel Vélez|Margaret Beale Spencer
Phenomenology and Intersectionality: Using PVEST as a Frame for Adolescent Identity Formation Amid Intersecting Ecological Systems of Inequality
University of Chicago|University of Chicago
beginning erikson identity formation often framed salient developmental challenge adolescents recent theoretical advances situate identity formation central life course process involving ecological social context associated diverse experiences characteristics scholars employed intersectionality call study experiences individuals belong multiple marginalized groups article argue developmental research would served return crenshaws formulation intersectionalitythat marginalization involves systematic inequality interlocking systems oppressionas integrated spencers phenomenological variant ecological systems theory pvest latter formulated needed critique traditional developmental theories generally ignored problem inequality experienced multiple layers navigated contexts problematic ecological contexts understood intersectionalitys forefronting complex structures social positionalitythat power dynamics interconnected systems lead differential outcomes within socially constructed categories like class race gender pvest complements insights attentiveness phenomenological interpretations responsesthe process therefore argue adolescent outcomes understood top bottom including youth interpret cope vulnerability based upon experiences interlocking systems oppression consequent synthesis bolster identification pillarlike supports needed youth afford effective assistance across respective socialization contexts