Age patterns in dual-cycle identity processes and their associations with life satisfaction

Objective
Identity development research often applies the identity status approach, which distinguishes different dimensions of identity-relevant commitment levels and exploration behavior. However, age differences in these dimensions have mostly been examined in adolescence and young adulthood, leaving questions about their variation across the adult lifespan. Additionally, associations between identity and life satisfaction have been equally understudied in adult populations.

Method
We examined these questions in a large, nationally representative U.K. sample (N = 3869; age range 18-97). Identity processes were measured using an abbreviated Dimensions of Identity Development Scale. After invariance testing by age groups, we examined age differences across identity dimensions: Commitment and Exploration (depth, breadth, ruminative).

Results
Older individuals reported lower scores on all exploration dimensions until late adulthood. However, though no age differences in commitment were observed between early and middle adulthood, less commitment was reported from middle to late adulthood. Additionally, commitment and exploration in depth were consistently positively associated with life satisfaction, whereas ruminative exploration negatively predicted life satisfaction, with stronger associations appearing in later adulthood.

Conclusions
These findings demonstrate the feasibility of studying identity across adulthood from a measurement perspective and highlight how identity dimensions relate to well-being at different ages.