Abstract
Previous research has supported Erikson's theoretical proposition that advanced identity formation is associated with greater interpersonal intimacy. However, some writers have criticized existing studies for using cross-sectional methods and/or male subjects exclusively. Therefore, 78 college undergraduates, 28 males and 50 females, were randomly selected as participants in a larger 1-year longitudinal project to assess the identity-intimacy relationship. The Marcia (1966) Ego-Identity Interview and the Orlofsky, Marcia, and Lesser (1973) Intimacy Interview were administered to measure subjects' statuses on the two psychosocial constructs. The longitudinal data in this study indicate that identity formation maintains a trend for time-lagged and concurrent associations with intimacy development. Furthermore, occupational identity for male subjects and religious identity for female subjects were the most salient factors that contributed to advanced intimacy status. The importance of sex differences is discussed in determining the specificity of the identity-intimacy relationship.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
