NCJ Number
216237
Journal
Journal of Adolescence Volume: 29 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2006 Pages: 737-748
Date Published
October 2006
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Utilizing an ethnically diverse sample of high school and college students, this study examined the relationships between identity formation and romantic attachment.
Abstract
Results of the study indicate that the individuals in the foreclosed identity status group had significantly lower relationship avoidance scores than the diffused identity status group. Identity status and romantic attachment style were significantly related among the college sample, but not among the high school sample. In sum, the relationship between identity status and romantic attachment style is complex. Erikson’s (1968) psychosocial development theory suggests that one must have a strong sense of identity before one is able to achieve a deeper sense of intimacy. According to prior theoretical research identity is crucial for adult romantic attachment. The intent of this study was to empirically examine the link between identity status and romantic attachment style by integrating the adult attachment constructs with the identity constructs. It was predicted that the relation between identity status and romantic attachment style would be stronger among a college sample than among a high school sample, because the older sample would be more likely to be grappling with intimacy issues. The study sample consisted of 189 high school students from public high schools in Florida and 324 college undergraduate students from Florida International University. Tables, references