Modification of Luyckx et al.’s Integrated Process Oriented Model of Identity Formation

Our study attempts to assess the validity of a modification of the Luyckx, Schwartz, Berzonsky, Soenens, Vansteenkiste, Smits and Goossens’ dual-cycle model of identity formation (2008). The model has been extended to include a six dimensions because it takes two types of ruminative exploration into account. Thus, the model consists of reflective exploration in breadth, ruminative exploration in breadth and commitment making, which form a commitment formation cycle, and reflective exploration in depth, ruminative exploration in depth and identification with commitment, which in turn form a commitment evaluation cycle. Six hundred and forty-two Caucasian Poles (including 51 early adolescents, 270 late adolescents, 272 emerging adults and 49 young adults; 66% women) participated in our study. Confirmatory factor analysis and correlation analysis between identity dimensions indicate that the proposed model has a satisfactory internal validity. Analysis of variance in groups with different educational-professional contexts and ages, as well as correlation analysis of the identity dimensions with adjustment indicators, and ruminative and reflective self-consciousness show a satisfactory external validity. In summary, the proposed modification may present an alternative to the original model, but its limitations will also be discussed.