Final answer:
Gina is in the identity moratorium status, actively exploring different paths and options to develop a better understanding of her own identity, which is a normal part of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development during adolescence. The correct option is c. Identity moratorium
Step-by-step explanation:
Gina's decision to take time off from college to travel and “find herself” is reflective of her identity moratorium status. In Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, an identity moratorium is a period of active exploration of options without making a final commitment.
This is a time when individuals explore different paths, beliefs, and roles to understand themselves better. An identity moratorium is often characterized by a delay in making important life decisions, such as career choice or ideology while exploring and searching for personal identity.
Adolescents in this status may experiment with different lifestyles, take on various roles, and pursue new experiences as part of their quest for a more defined self-concept.
Gina's choice to explore and take time for introspection before settling into a fixed identity aligns with this phase of identity formation. It represents the active process of seeking out possibilities to develop a more solid sense of self.
The other options, such as identity diffusion, identity foreclosure, and identity achievement, represent different stages or outcomes of the identity development process.
In identity diffusion, there is an absence of commitment or serious search for identity; in identity foreclosure, commitments are made without exploration; and in identity achievement, commitments are made following a period of exploration. The correct option is c. Identity moratorium