Empirical Validation of Erikson's Theory of Identity Crises in Late Adolescence

Abstract

Summary Ego identity crystallization was studied within the context of Erikson's psychosocial theory of ego identity development. Ego identity and ego diffusion were measured by the Dignan Ego Identity Scale, an instrument based on Erikson's theoretical formulations. It was hypothesized that Ss within the age span of 17 to 20 would report significantly more ego diffusion than their older counterparts ranging in age from 21–24 years, and that females would report significantly less ego diffusion than males within each age group. These hypotheses were tested on 507 midwestern college students in a cross-sectional design which utilized multiple regression analysis. Results supported both hypotheses and indicated that ego identity processes crystallize in late adolescence as postulated by Erikson's psychosocial theory of ego epigenesis. A significant negative correlation between ego identity and anxiety offered additional construct validity for the Dignan Ego Identity Scale.

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