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Moratorium-achievement (MAMA) cycles in lifespan identity development: value orientations and reasoning system
J Stephen1, E Fraser, J E Marcia
1Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
Journal of Adolescence
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Understanding identity development, this study found that Foreclosure identity statuses are instrumentally-oriented, while Moratorium statuses exhibit experiential orientation and dialectical thinking. These factors influence life-span identity reformulation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Identity Formation
Background:
- Identity development is a key area in psychology, with ongoing questions about transitions between identity statuses.
- Existing research seeks to explain shifts between Foreclosure and Identity Achievement, and the potential for regression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of "instrumental vs. experiential orientation" and "formistic vs. dialectical thinking" in identity development.
- To address key questions in identity research concerning transitions and life-span reformulation.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 60 university students (23 males, 37 females) to assess identity status.
- Measured participants' orientation (instrumental vs. experiential) and thinking style (formistic vs. dialectical).
Main Results:
- Individuals in Foreclosure identity status demonstrated an instrumental orientation.
- Participants in the Moratorium identity status showed an experiential orientation.
- A higher proportion of Moratorium individuals exhibited dialectical thinking compared to other statuses.
Conclusions:
- Instrumental and experiential orientations, along with dialectical thinking, appear to be significant factors in understanding identity development.
- These findings offer theoretical insights into the processes of life-span identity reformulation and transitions between statuses.