Using Identity Discrepancy Theory to Predict Psychological Distress

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors offer an identity model of distress that allows for differentiation between distress outcomes. Their model (Large and Marcussen, 2000) represents an extension of Burke's identity control model (1991b, 1996), which incorporates ideas from self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987; 1989; 1996) in order to explain the form and degree of distress. This is done as it specifies the origins of distress and predicts distinct outcomes, that is, depression and anxiety. The authors review the identity control model and self-discrepancy theory, and present an integrated identity discrepancy theory of distress. They also offer some preliminary data that test the basic propositions of the model using three identities: student, child, and friend. They conclude by suggesting directions for future research linking identities and distress. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2004 APA, all rights reserved)from the chapter