Ego structuralization in late adolescence as seen through early memories and ego identity status

Abstract

This study was undertaken to examine the relationship between ego identity status and early memory themes in an effort to detect possible phases in the process of ego structuralization during late adolescence. Subjects were 73 late adolescents (39 women and 34 men) who had been first year university students two years previously. Each subject was given Marcia's (1966) Identity Status Interview and an Early Memories Interview designed to elicit world view orientation (Gushurst, 1971). Identity achievements most frequently expressed themes of moving contentedly alone or alongside significant others, while themes of moving away from the familiar were most common among moratoriums. Seeking security and support from significant others or familiar settings were most prevalent themes for foreclosures, while desire for relatedness was the most frequently occurring theme for diffusions. Statuses did not differ in frequency of themes expressing conflict. Consistent with observations of Mahler et al., (1975) on subphases of infant differentiation, results of this study point to similar processes as adolescents relinquish, rather than incorporate, parental introjects.