Me, Myself, and I: Opportunities and Challenges in Multiple Identities Research

The purpose of this multiple identities panel symposium is threefold. First, by bringing established identity scholars together with different research backgrounds and theoretical perspectives – such as the level of multiple identities studied and the methodological approaches utilized – we hope to both illustrate the diversity and nuances of multiple identity research. Our second purpose is to serve as a practical guide for scholars interested in pursuing multiple identity research with a discussion of both empirical and conceptual challenges with conducting multiple identity research, including selecting the appropriate empirical approach (the pros and cons of qualitative vs. quantitative research), measurement and operationalization challenges, and the selection of what identity variables to account for. Our third and final aim is to take a look forward into the future, with a discussion of multiple identity research trends and the opportunities for future research.