The influence place has on identity in this article is seen as a result of a holistic and
reciprocal interaction between people and their physical environment; people affect
places, and places (and the way places are affected) influence how people see
themselves. While identity theories are the focus of this work, perspectives on place will
be described briefly to introduce the discussion.
In environment-behaviour studies, three identity theories have been used in recent
decades to explain the impact of place on identity: (1) place-identity theory, (2) social
identity theory, and (3) identity process theory. These theories will be described in
relation to place. A discussion of whether "place-identity" is a relevant theory and
concept, and a suggestion for an integrating model follows.