Article
Schwartz, S.J., Cote, J.E. & Arnett, J.J. (2005) Identity and Agency in Emerging Adulthood: Two Developmental Routes in the Individualization. Youth & Society, 2005; 37(2): 201-229.
What is the research topic under study?
The topic under study is the process of identity formation in emerging adulthood Three aspects of psychology in the process of identity formation are examined and they include style, status, and process. These aspects are examined in relation to personal agency and their association with the process of individualization.
What were the hypotheses?
There is consistency of identity and agency across ethnic groups (Hispanics, non-Hispanic Blacks and non-Hispanic Whites).
The process of individualization can be separated into developmental and default forms.
What research methodology (ies) were utilized?
The study adopts a quantitative research design that was based on the above hypotheses. A crosse-sectional study design is used. Data analysis was done through descriptive statistics of all study variables, structural equation modeling techniques was used to establish the association between personal agency and identity, while cluster analysis was used in the identification of groups of cases that systematically varied according to agentic personality scores.Who were the participants?
The participants were 332 emerging-adult campus students. Of these, 90 were men and 240 were women with an average age of 21.7. The sample included 77 non-Hispanic Blacks, 121 non-Hispanic Whites and 134 Hispanics. Both U.S.-born and immigrant participants were included in the study sample.
What were the research findings and implications?
The research findings indicate that emerging adults use agentic capacities to varying levels, and that the level of agency that is used is directly associated to the consistency of the identity of the emerging adult. The findings did support the hypothesis that there is consistency of identity and agency across ethnic groups. Also, the results support the hypothesis that the process of individualization can be separated into developmental and default forms. These results have implications on emerging adulthood theory.
Why did you select this particular article?
I selected this article because it explores an area of emerging adulthood that is not understood well. Identity issues are common during the period of emerging adulthood and thus the article adequately addresses the role of individualization and personal agency in the process of identity formation during this period.
References
Schwartz, S.J., Cote, J.E. & Arnett, J.J. (2005) Identity and Agency in Emerging Adulthood: Two Developmental Routes in the Individualization. Youth & Society, 2005; 37(2): 201- 229.
