Validating a centrality model of self-identity

Author: Darhl M. Pedersen   PhD  

Publisher: Scientific Journal Publishers

ISSN: 0301-2212

Source: Social Behavior and Personality: An international journal, Vol.27, Iss.1, 1999-02, pp. : 73-86

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Abstract

An earlier investigation of the centrality of attributes of self-identity led to a four-factor model. The four factors of self-identity which varied according to their centrality and which were measured by the Who Am I? Scale were Spiritual, Personal/Social, Family, and Identifications (outward and physical). This study was directed toward further validation of the model. Three grouping variables - gender, marital status, and church atendance - were examined according to their relationship to profiles representing the centrality of the four factors. 226 participants from three diverse universities were studied. Profile analyses yielded no significant gender differences in the centrality profiles. However, there were significant differences relative to marital status and amount of church attendance. Married people had identities that were higher in Family and lower in Personal/Social and Identifications. And church attendance was directly related to the centrality of Spiritual identity and inversely related to the centrality of Personal/Social and Identification identities.