While all university students experience identity development, first-generation students (FGS) must also negotiate an identity that is unique in their family context. Building on our prior findings that FGS experience relational tensions due to their evolving identities (Authors, 2024), this study aimed to better understand how FGS experience and negotiate these challenges. Communication Theory of Identity (CTI), which places communication at the centre of identity formation (Jung & Hecht, 2004), guided the study. CTI posits that there are four layers of identity: personal (i.e., self-concept), enacted (i.e., the performed self), relational (i.e., relational roles and expectations), and communal (i.e., group memberships; Hecht, 1993). When these layers of identity conflict with one another, identity gaps occur, which individuals must negotiate. Four focus groups with 22 students (17 women; five men) explored how becoming a university student influenced their experiences of personal, enacted, relational, and communal identities. Thematic analysis revealed 7 distinct identity gaps: Clash of home and university cultures; Cultural tensions regarding gender; Questioning religious beliefs; Community opinions; Strained family relationships; Strained friendships; and Gaps for growth. Two negotiation strategies emerged: Identity silencing, and Resistance/Advocacy. Findings underscore the uniqueness and complexity of FGS identity, and offer insights for educators and institutions who wish to better support FGS in their transition to and experiences of university.

Authors:
Diana Breshears, University of the Free State, South Africa
Luzelle Naudé, University of the Free State, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
Prof Breshears is an Associate Professor of Communication Science at the University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus in South Africa.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-breshears-3ba497379/

Luzelle Naudé is a Professor of Psychology at the University of the Free State, South Africa. She coordinates the IDEaS Interdisciplinary hub for Identity Research
https://www.linkedin.com/in/luzelle-naude-1836a3255/

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-breshears-3ba497379/

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Luzelle-Naude

Additional website of interest
http://www.ufs.ac.za/ideas-hub

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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