"By showcasing the writings of the most prominent senior sociologists and the most promising scholars studying identity, this volume skillfully demonstrates the importance of identity theory, its ability to integrate different theoretical vantage points, and its broad applicability to an array of social issues. This volume should give us great confidence in the continued vitality and integration of theoretical and empirical explorations of identity." --Brian Powell, James H. Rudy Professor, Department of Sociology, Indiana University "New Directions in Identity Theory and Research is a refreshing look toward the rich futures of identity theory. Featuring contributions from both legendary identity scholars such as Peter Burke and George McCall, the chapters explore still-unanswered theoretical and methodological questions through application to contemporary 21st c. concerns. Questions such as whether and how ever-increasing reliance on digital communication may affect identity formation and verification, or how the experience of age-related medical crises may partially destroy deeply held identities, or the importance of identity verification in shielding those who are deaf from the high levels of depression experienced by this community, suggest that this volume merits a central place on the shelf of any contemporary social psychologist." --Judith A. Howard, Divisional Dean of Social Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Washington "In this volume, readers will find an impressive array of linkages to other domains of social psychology (e.g., emotions, trust, exchange, social identity) as well as analytical applications of specific identities (e.g., religious, racial, stigmatized). For the next decade and beyond, this will be the 'manual' for charting the direction of identity research." --Karen A. Hegtvedt, Professor, Department of Sociology, Emory University