Gender differences in identity development: an examination of longitudinal data.
Longitudinal data from 105 junior high school students were analyzed to examine the relationship between gender and identity development over time. Analysis of variance, t tests, and analysis of covariance were employed. Taken collectively, results indicated that patterns of change over time were similar for males and females; as the students aged, they grew in psychosocial maturity regardless of gender. These results are consistent with other work using Eriksonian-based assessment instruments. Gilligan, using ethnographic methodology and a framework at odds with Erikson's, has proposed a very different interpretation of development across gender. Perhaps the two methodologies and the concomitant findings should be considered in a complementary fashion in view of the complex societal forces imposed upon females as they progress in their identity development.
Streitmatter
J
J
Department of Teaching and Teacher Education, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721.
D000293:Adolescent; D004532:Ego; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007207:Individuation; D008297:Male; D010552:Personality Assessment; D010553:Personality Development; D012649:Self Concept