Which stage of racial identity development is NOT included in the stages mentioned?

The correct choice indicates that "Externalization" is not a recognized stage in the commonly referenced models of racial identity development. The stages typically include Conformity, Dissonance, and Introspection, each representing key phases in how individuals come to understand and integrate their racial identity.

Conformity is characterized by the acceptance of the dominant culture's values and a preference for the norms and influences of that culture. Dissonance arises when a person encounters information or experiences that contradict their previously held beliefs, leading to confusion and a questioning of one's identity. Introspection represents a stage where individuals begin to reevaluate their identity and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of their own racial or ethnic background.

“Externalization,” while it may imply a relevant concept related to the expression or manifestation of identity, does not fit into the conventional stages identified in racial identity development models. Recognizing and understanding these established stages helps individuals and practitioners facilitate discussions and approaches to racial identity that are grounded in the developmental framework.