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Cognitive mediators of ego functioning in adolescence
A L Hurtig1, A C Petersen, M H Richards
1Pediatrics Department, University of Illinois, Chicago.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|December 5, 2013
Summary
This study explored cognitive functioning and ego development in adolescents. Findings revealed gender differences, with interpersonal reasoning predicting ego functioning in females, and physical-mathematical reasoning and verbal intelligence in males.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Adolescent development is often linked to cognitive abilities, particularly formal operational thought and mature ego functioning.
- Previous research has largely assumed a direct relationship between these constructs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific relationships between ego functioning and two distinct domains of operational thinking: social interpersonal reasoning and physical-mathematical reasoning.
- To examine potential gender differences in these relationships among high school seniors.
Main Methods:
- 139 high school seniors completed measures of physical-mathematical reasoning, interpersonal reasoning, verbal intelligence, and ego functioning (Sentence Completion Test).
- Correlational and causal analyses were employed to examine the associations between variables.
Main Results:
- Significant gender differences were observed in the patterns of correlations and causal relationships.
- For females, ego functioning was predicted by interpersonal reasoning.
- For males, ego functioning was predicted by physical-mathematical reasoning and verbal intelligence.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights distinct pathways linking cognitive reasoning domains to ego functioning in adolescent males and females.
- Findings challenge a monolithic view of cognitive development and ego maturation, emphasizing gender-specific influences.
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