Effects on identity formation of expectations for self-change

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to examine effects on identity formation of expectations for self-change. Items were developed for assessing the domain of the actual self from which participants desired to change, the domain of the ideal self toward which they desired to change, the intention to change, the self-image after changing, and plans for change. In Study 1, university students (N=393) completed a questionnaire. Analysis of the data revealed that lower scores on ruminative exploration were found in those participants without an intention for self-change, compared to those who had a specific actual or ideal self when they desired change. In Study 2, university students (N=230) completed 2 questionnaires. The results indicated that a significant decrease in ruminative exploration was found in those students with expectations for both their actual and ideal selves, compared to those with no expectations. Moreover, the data from the 2 studies suggested that factors affecting identity formation include the self-image after changing toward the ideal self and planning for change toward the ideal self.