During which developmental stage do children primarily start to form their identity?

Children primarily start to form their identity during adolescence. This stage, generally recognized as occurring between the ages of 12 and 18, is characterized by increased independence, exploration of personal values, and a greater focus on peer relationships. Adolescents begin to ask critical questions about who they are, what they believe, and what role they want to play in society. This quest for identity is a key developmental task during this period, as individuals experiment with different roles and experiences, ultimately leading to a more stable sense of self.

In contrast, early childhood, infancy, and preschool age are foundational periods for development but do not emphasize identity formation in the way that adolescence does. During these earlier stages, children are primarily focused on basic skills, language acquisition, and social interactions, which lay the groundwork for the more complex identity exploration that occurs later in adolescence.