What are the motifs in Disorder and Early Sorrow by Thomas Mann?

Search for self-identity is a recurring idea that is found in this story. Most of the characters in the tale take on false identities or desire to be someone other than who they are. The Professor struggles throughout the story with his loss of prestige due to the country's economic downturn and with the loss of Ellie's affection as she becomes interested in people other than her parents. As a result, he searches for a way to identify himself. Bert tries to look and behave like Xaver; Ingrid and her brother both adopt false identities on the bus and during their telephone pranks. Even Ellie wants to be Max's sister.