The concept of identity is by nature Janus-faced (Breakwell, 1992; Hewitt, 1991; Yardley & Honess, 1987). In one sense, the content and meaning of a social identity is normatively defined, the product of processes operating at the social structural level that are not subject to individual interpretation. At the same time, however, individuals exhibit considerable agency in constructing their social identities. Although the “raw material” for the construction of one's various social identities is supplied by one's location1 in the social structure on dimensions such as class, occupation, and ethnicity, there are many different ways of perceiving, evaluating, and finally synthesizing this raw material at the individual level in the construction of an internalized, coherent self-concept. This study represents an examination of four hypotheses concerning how this psychological process of synthesis and internalization operates within the constraints of a particular social structure, that of Sri Lanka. From the range of possible social groups and categories, the following 11 were selected for analysis: nation, social class, age, religion, caste, occupation, race,2 gender, educational level, town or village of residence, and political party. These were chosen because they are applicable to and are of at least moderate significance for all members of this cultural group.3 Specifically, this study focuses on one aspect of these social identities at the individual level: the felt importance or salience of each social identity.