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Personal Skills for Optimal Identity Development: A Person-Centered Approach in Italian Late-Adolescents
Luigia Simona Sica1, Laura Aleni Sestito1
1University of Naples "Federico II", Italy.
Journal for Person-Oriented Research
|September 22, 2021
Summary
Adolescents with higher personal skills for optimal identity development (PSID) show more advanced identity formation and better psychosocial functioning. These skills are crucial resources for developing an optimal identity in today's society.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Development
- Identity Formation
Background:
- De-standardized societies present challenges for optimal identity development.
- Personal skills for optimal identity development (PSID) are considered key resources.
- Understanding the link between identity and PSID is crucial for adolescent well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between identity statuses and competences like creativity, personal growth initiative, and agency.
- To investigate the role of PSID in adolescent identity formation and psychosocial functioning.
- To explore the relationship between identity, PSID, and well-being versus ill-being.
Main Methods:
- A person-centered approach was used with 250 Italian high school students.
- Five self-report measures assessed identity development, agency, creativity, and personal growth initiative.
- Psychosocial correlates including anxiety, depression, and well-being were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Five typologies emerged, illustrating the interplay between identity and PSID.
- Late adolescents with medium/high PSID levels demonstrated more advanced identity definition.
- Higher PSID was associated with positive psychosocial functioning, supporting its role in optimal identity acquisition.
Conclusions:
- PSID acts as a significant resource for achieving optimal identity in adolescence.
- Interventions aimed at fostering personal resources can support identity development.
- Findings highlight the importance of cultivating PSID for positive adolescent psychosocial outcomes.
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