According to Marcia, which identity status is defined by commitment without exploration?

• A. Diffusion
• B. Foreclosure
• C. Moratorium
• D. Achievement

Answer: (B)

Foreclosure occurs when a person makes a firm commitment to an identity, values, or career path without exploring alternatives. In Marcia's framework, exploration means actively questioning options, while commitment means settling on a choice. Foreclosure is thus commitment without prior exploration, often stemming from parental or cultural pressures that push a person toward a given path. This can give a clear sense of direction and stability, but may limit flexibility if circumstances change or if the individual later wants to redefine who they are. By contrast, diffusion involves neither commitment nor exploration, moratorium involves exploration without commitment, and achievement involves both exploration and a thoughtful commitment after weighing options.