The Generative, Coordinative, and Adaptive Imperatives: The Systemic Functions of Eriksonian Identity Development

In responding to Jon Adler’s identity as play, this commentary discusses the functional roles that Erikson accorded to identity development in his lifespan model, that any identity metaphor, including play, would need to address. I propose three essential functions that identity development provides within evolving intergenerational human systems. First, the generative imperative positions identity as a teleonomic precursor to adult generativity, without which the system dies out. Second, the coordinative imperative defines identity as a functional executive role managing identity signalling on the interface between personality and the social system. Third, the adaptive imperative highlights identity’s role in enabling intergenerational adaptation to shifting circumstance. Using these criteria in evaluating Adler’s concepts of “ensemble” and “embodied performance”, I argue that the play metaphor offers a valuable addition to our theoretical vocabulary alongside previous conceptualizations, but does not replace them. It particularly holds promise in possibly bridging identity’s overarching function in guiding adulthood, with its function in daily mundane interaction.