Age Differences and Similarities in Identity Distress Following the Katrina Disaster: Theoretical and Applied Implications of Erikson’s Theory

Abstract

This study examined predictions from Erik- son's lifespan developmental theory in the context of severe disaster exposure. Relationships among traumatic stress exposure, age, identity distress, and posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms were explored among 401 indi- viduals (age 18-86, mean = 32.83, SD = 14.1 years) exposed to Hurricane Katrina. Traumatic exposure expe- riences were related to identity distress ratings, but results suggested that the association was a function of PTS symptoms. Identity distress was negatively correlated with age, but the association between identity distress and age was moderated by the level of PTS symptoms. Identity distress was associated with PTS symptoms even while controlling for general psychological symptoms. The utility of the identity distress construct and theoretical implica- tions for identity research in the wake of disaster are discussed.