A STUDY OF IDENTITY STATUSES AND THEIR STRUCTURE IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

Administered 2 author-constructed questionnaires (an identity status scale and a crisis-commitment questionnaire) to 170 male and 140 female undergraduates. Identity status was based on 3 variables: present commitment, past crisis, future commitment pursuit. Crisis commitment was measured in 11 areas at 3 developmental periods. Results show that identity diffusion and foreclosure status were found in only 4% of Ss. Identity diffusion/moratorium intermediate status represented about 50% of Ss. In males, levels of crisis and commitment in the areas of future occupation, lifestyles and values, and study varied significantly among identity statuses. In females, the level of crisis during the time following university admission and the level of commitment in relations with friends of the same sex, study, future occupation and lifestyles, and values varied significantly among identity statuses. The features of each identity status and sex differences were closely examined, especially in relation to the level of crisis and commitment following admission to a university. (17 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)