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The relationship between identity status, locus of control, and ego development

Journal of Youth and Adolescence volume 8, pages 81–89 (1979)Cite this article

Abstract

Based upon the assumption that identity status, locus of control, and ego stage development are interrelated psychological mechanisms that screen and filter social stimuli, a comparison of the three psychological constructs was completed using 294 college students. Identity achievement students were found to be more advanced in their ego stage development and level of internality, while diffusion students were less advanced. Contrary to expectations, no evidence was found for intraindividual development based upon cross-sectional data.

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Author information

Affiliations

  1. Associate Professor of Family and Human Development, Utah State University, USA

    Gerald R. Adams

  2. Doctoral candidate, The Pennsylvania State University, USA

    Judy A. Shea

Authors
  1. Gerald R. Adams
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  2. Judy A. Shea
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Additional information

Research interests are personality and social development of adolescents, interpersonal attraction, and family relations.

Received her M.S. in human development from Utah State University.

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Adams, G.R., Shea, J.A. The relationship between identity status, locus of control, and ego development. J Youth Adolescence 8, 81–89 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02139142

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02139142

Keywords

  • College Student
  • Health Psychology
  • Identity Status
  • Stage Development
  • School Psychology