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

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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

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Utah State University, USA

    Gerald R. Adams (Associate Professor of Family and Human Development)

  2. The Pennsylvania State University, USA

    Judy A. Shea (Doctoral candidate)

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

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