Examination and Comparison of Identity positions between Female and Male University Students

Authors

1 Department of Psychology, Ailame Tabataba"j University

2 M.A. in Psychology

Abstract

Identity is one of the most important questions of human life. Erickson discussed the question for the first time. Identity positions were later developed and elaborated by others, resulting in provision of a new tool for
examining identity positions.
The method used here is causal-comparative, and the population under study consists of all Tehran-resident university students affiliated to the Iranian Ministry of Higher Education. The sample comprises 500 undergraduates, which is selected among five universities according to 1377-78 (Persian calendar) admissions. There are 158 male, and 247 female students in the sample.
As a research tool 'My Status Causal Assessment Questionnaire (EOM- ELS2) is used. The data analysis showed no significant difference between gender and identity types, and hence hypotheses asserting difference between male and female students were not confirmed. The variables of discipline (subject majored), place of education, and place where the high school diploma was obtained, did not have significant relationship with identity type either. The hypothesis positing relationship between age and being located in identity statuses was confirmed only within inter-individual identity domain. In addition, the highest identity formation was found in age groups between 25 to 30 years old.
Between each of girls and boys groups, exclusively, the difference of identity types was found to be significant. The important point concerning both groups is high percentage of crisis-stricken individuals, compared to other statuses. The degree of identity formation does not enjoy high percentage. Among the male group, adhering to others' identity was less notable.
 

Keywords

Women's Studies Sociological and Psychological
Volume 2, Issue 5
September 2004
Pages 87-110

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