Adolescent identity exploration: a test of Erikson's theory of transitional crisis

Abstract

This research investigated Erikson's theory that adolescent identity exploration is associated with a variety of symptoms, such as fluctuations in ego strength, mood swings, rebelliousness, and heightened physical complaints. A sample of 82 high school students completed the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and the Ego-Identity Interview. Identity exploration was correlated with 23 major clinical scales and the 14 Frequently Scored Scales of the MMPI. A factor analysis revealed seven scales loading on a single factor, which accounted for 39% of the variance in exploration. The items in the factor suggested a pattern consistent with Erikson's theory of adolescent crisis, and was labeled the Identity Exploration Crisis (IEC) factor. Adolescents who were actively engaged in identity exploration were more likely to produce a personality pattern characterized by self-doubt, confusion, disturbed thinking impulsivity, conflicts with parents and other authority figures, reduced ego strength, and increased physical symptoms.