Individuality and identity exploration: An autophotographic study

Author(s): Dollinger, S. M. C.

Journal/Book: J Res Personal. 1997; 31: 525 B St, Ste 1900, San Diego, CA 92101-4495. Academic Press Inc Jnl-Comp Subscriptions. 337-354.

Abstract: This research examined the relation of identity status and identity style to individuality as portrayed through autophotographic essays of young adults (N = 399) answering the question ''who are you?'' It was reasoned that those who have engaged in an identity-exploration process should create richer, more individualistic photo essays than those who have not done so. Study 1 briefly presented a secondary analysis of a previously published study showing that individuals who have experienced an identity crisis (i.e., achieved and moratorium statuses) portray greater individuality and richness in their photo essays than those who have not (i.e., foreclosed and diffusion statuses). Study 2 extended this finding in a new sample by showing that individuals who primarily use a normative style of processing identity-relevant information devised the least individualistic photo essays whereas those with an information-oriented style devised the most individualistic photo essays. In particular, Study 2 showed that individuality of self-depiction was associated with less reliance on a normative style and, replicating past research, with greater openness to experience. Conceptions of identity and individuality are discussed in light of these findings.

Note: Article Dollinger SJ, So Illinois Univ, Dept Psychol, Carbondale,IL 62901 USA

Keyword(s): EGO-IDENTITY; ADOLESCENCE; PERSONALITY; STYLE; REPLICATION; CREATIVITY; EXPERIENCE; OPENNESS; SHYNESS; SELF

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