Expanding the identity: Identity formation and self-expansion in romantic relationships

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2010
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Haverford College. Department of Psychology
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Thesis
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eng
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Haverford users only
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Abstract
These two studies explored the association between self-expansion and identity formation in initial attraction, during close relationships, and after relationship dissolution. The first study examined self-expansion and identity formation in 18-24 year olds during relationships and after breakup using a three wave longitudinal questionnaire study. We predicted that aspects of identity formation and self-expansion would be associated during the relationship, and that self-expansion prior to breakup would be negatively associated with identity clarity after relationship dissolution. While identity formation and self-expansion were found to be strongly associated during the relationship, both cross-sectionally and over time, self-expansion levels had no association with post-breakup identity clarity. The second study investigated the moderating role of identity status on the relationship between similarity and liking in first impressions based on methodology developed by Aron et al. (2006). We predicted individuals high in identity exploration, particularly those high in exploration and low in identity commitment, would show a greater preference for dissimilar others; however, no significant effects were found. Future research should work to better understand when individuals are attracted to dissimilar others, examine which aspects of the self are affected by breakup, and identify which dimensions of identity are most impacted by close relationships.
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