Societal Expectations Of Exemplary Behavior As Role Models And Its Influences On The Identity Formation On Some Selected Clergy Children In The Mezam Division Of The North West Region Of Cameroon

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this research was to examine the societal expectations of exemplary behaviour as role models and its influence on identity formation on some selected clergy’s children of the Mezam Division of the North West Region of Cameroon. The study aimed at examining the influence of societal expectations of exemplary behaviour as role models on identity formation of clergy’s children. Materials and Methods The convergent mixed-methods design was used in conducting this study. To collect quantitative data, the cross-sectional survey design with the aid of a questionnaire made up of closed ended items was used. Qualitative data was collected through the phenomenological approach with the aid of an interview guide made up of open-ended questions. A sample of 60 purposefully selected clergy’s children were recruited for this study. Findings Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools; frequency counts, graphs, percentages and the Pearson test and regression analysis was used to test hypotheses. Thematic analysis with the aid of themes and quotations was used for qualitative data. The association between identity formation (IF) and the pressure of being a role model (PRM) is strong and negative (r = –0.608, p < 0.00001). This means that as the pressure on clergy’s children to always be perfect role models increases, their capacity for developing a stable and clear personal identity diminishes.