Identity formation in the thirteen American colonies: an interdisciplinary approach with a focus on psychological theory
Date
2017-11
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Southern New Hampshire University
Abstract
This thesis addresses the process of the formation of a separate identity among the original Thirteen Colonies in the New World. Although the research into the American Revolution has been extensive, psychological principles have not been applied to explain the change in identity. A combinative approach is the best way to remedy this issue: an examination of the various causes of the Revolution between the years of 1763 and 1776 (economic, political, religious, geographical, and ideological) and how they created in-groups and out-groups will resolve this oversight. This analysis concludes that the major events during this time window led to the formation of solid in-groups and out-groups leading to the separation of identity and country, and the changes are explained using social identity theory and other group theories in social psychology and sociology. (Author abstract)
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