Glossary
Identity associated with changed behavior
What is identity associated with changed behavior?
Identity associated with changed behavior prompts a person to describe themselves as someone who used to perform an unwanted behavior.
How it differs from general identity-based behavior change
The original taxonomy describes a specific change in self-description, such as describing oneself as an ex-smoker. This is narrower than the popular advice to become “a runner” or “an athlete,” associated with James Clear’s identity-based approach in Atomic Habits. Here, the emphasis is on a behavior the person has already changed.
Illustrative example
A person who has stopped smoking describes themselves as an ex-smoker rather than as someone currently trying to stop.
What identity can and cannot do
The original BCT Taxonomy v1 definitions specify this as technique 13.5. A new self-description can mark a meaningful transition, but it does not remove cravings, difficult circumstances or the need for support. Treat identity as one part of behavior change, not a promise that self-control will become unnecessary. The taxonomy describes the technique; it does not establish how well it works.