Extending Identity Theory to Predict Differential Forms and Degrees of Psychological Distress

We propose an explanation of how identities influence the way people experience distress. The formulation we offer draws on the strengths of sociological and psychological theories of stress, combining the advantages of Burke's identity theory (1991, 1996) and Higgins'self-discrepancy theory (1987, 1989). The incorporation of self-discrepancy theory into identity theory provides specification of important dimensions of meaning (obligations and aspirations). Disruption of an identity process is predicted to result in anxiety to the extent that the identity it is oriented toward fulfilling obligations, and is expected to result in depression to the extent that it is aspiration oriented. The degree of distress associated with an identity is a function of the size of the disruption and the salience and organization of the identity. This reformulation allows a better understanding of how changes or disruptions associated with identities will impact emotional well-being.