Styles of identity formation in early and middle adolescence

Styles of identity formation in early to middle adolescence were explored. Reconceptualizing Marcia's paradigm (1966, 1980), styles of identity formation are regarded as nonexclusive dimensions that are manifest in both the interpersonal and the intrapersonal domains. A heterogeneous sample of 878 Israeli and British high school students of both sexes and from different socioeconomic backgrounds participated in the study by responding to a 70-item questionnaire. Discriminant analysis was used to identify the features of identity diffusion, foreclosure, and moratorium and form the basis of profiles characterizing each style. These profiles reflect coherent and differentiated styles of development in adolescence. Case examples illustrate the essence and complexity of these styles. A separate style of development, the evolutive style of identity formation, is identified and briefly discussed. Research is presented that provides further validation of the model.