Hierarchical classification and the integration of self-structure in late adolescence.
A number of empirical studies have demonstrated that one's self-concept is multi-dimensional in nature, varies according to social context, and shows increased differentiation throughout adolescence. There has been relatively less work, however, examining the integration of multi-dimensional social selves. Rosenberg and Gara's (1985) model of the multidimensional self (a model that utilizes a statistical procedure called "hierarchical classification" or HICLAS) was employed to investigate the integration of social selves during late adolescence. First- and fourth-year college students (n=128) completed a computer program designed to collect data required to construct HICLAS "self-structures". The findings indicated that the social selves of fourth-year college students were more related conceptually and were more differentiated than the social selves of first-year students. The differences between first- and fourth-year students suggested that hierarchical classification procedures could be used to address developmental hypotheses.
Elbogen
E B
EB
Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. eelbogen@psych.mc.duke.edu
Carlo
G
G
Spaulding
W
W
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010553:Personality Development; D010555:Personality Inventory; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012649:Self Concept; D012917:Social Adjustment