Sense of identity is cognitively intertwined with representations of need fulfilling close others.
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| Title: | Sense of identity is cognitively intertwined with representations of need fulfilling close others. |
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| Authors: | Collins, Josephine (AUTHOR), Beike, Denise R. (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Self & Identity. Jul2025, Vol. 24 Issue 5, p529-556. 28p. |
| Subjects: | Young adults, Identity (Psychology), Transition to adulthood, Adult development, Adults |
| Abstract: | Identity development involves close relationships with others. The present study with 483 emerging adults and 810 mature adults tested whether adults' sense of identity–their confidence in who they are and their purpose in life–is cognitively linked to representations of close others. Among mature adults, merely thinking of a close (relative to a non-close) other enhanced momentary sense of identity and thinking of one's sense of identity (relative to thinking of one's personality) brought close others to mind. Among emerging adults, the connections were weaker. The relationship between thoughts of close others and sense of identity was mediated by competence need fulfillment. A strong sense of identity is therefore maintained by thoughts of healthy relationships with close others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | Identity development involves close relationships with others. The present study with 483 emerging adults and 810 mature adults tested whether adults' sense of identity–their confidence in who they are and their purpose in life–is cognitively linked to representations of close others. Among mature adults, merely thinking of a close (relative to a non-close) other enhanced momentary sense of identity and thinking of one's sense of identity (relative to thinking of one's personality) brought close others to mind. Among emerging adults, the connections were weaker. The relationship between thoughts of close others and sense of identity was mediated by competence need fulfillment. A strong sense of identity is therefore maintained by thoughts of healthy relationships with close others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 15298868 |
| DOI: | 10.1080/15298868.2025.2498399 |
