Stress, identity status, and well-being in young adults.

This study examined identity achievement in the context of a stress and coping relation. Previous research has shown that identity status is related to self-esteem, emotional distress, capacity for intimacy, and cognitive advancement, with identity achievement being associated with more optimal states. Previous research has also shown that identity status is related to the social-cognitive orientations, or identity styles, that are utilized in encountering information, making decisions, and solving problems. These identity styles, in turn, have been found to be related to specific coping strategies an individual uses to deal with stress. Drawing from these findings, it was hypothesized that identity status would play an important role in the stress and coping process, with implications for a person's well-being. Specifically, relations between identity status and three coping variables---identity style, coping strategies, and emotion regulation---were hypothesized. Results of the study yielded findings supportive of the hypotheses. Identity achievers tended to use an information-oriented style, utilize problem-focused coping strategies when dealing with a stressful event, and have more healthy levels of emotion regulation. Identity diffusions, on the other hand tended to employ a diffuse/avoidant-oriented style, utilize emotion-focused coping strategies, and were more emotionally dysregulated. Achievers also tended to have greater psychological well-being, while diffusions tended to have more psychological problems. Implications of these finding and directions for future research are discussed.Dept. of Psychology. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2001 .J49. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 40-06, page: 1619. Adviser: Rosanne Menna. Thesis (M.A.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2001.