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Adolescent identity development and distress in a clinical sample.
Rachel E Wiley1, Steven L Berman
1University of Central Florida.
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|June 26, 2013
Summary
Adolescents with mental health issues often experience identity distress, which is linked to psychopathology. Assessing identity problems is crucial for effective treatment planning in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Adolescent identity development is a critical phase.
- Psychological problems can significantly impact identity formation.
- Identity distress is a recognized concern in adolescent mental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the links between identity development, identity distress, and psychological adjustment in adolescents with mental health conditions.
- To understand how identity issues relate to overall psychological well-being in this population.
Main Methods:
- Study involved 88 adolescents (aged 11-20) receiving community mental health services.
- Data collected on identity development, identity distress, and psychopathology symptoms.
- Regression analyses were used to examine relationships between variables.
Main Results:
- Over 22% of participants met criteria for Identity Problem (DSM-IV-TR).
- Psychopathology symptom scores correlated with identity distress, exploration, and commitment.
- Identity distress was specifically associated with psychopathology symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with clinical diagnoses frequently report significant identity distress.
- The interplay between psychopathology and identity distress may be reciprocal.
- Screening for identity issues during clinical interviews can aid diagnosis and treatment planning.
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