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Self-Concept Clarity Development Across the Lifespan

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Self-Concept Clarity

Abstract

Self-concept clarity can and does change across the lifespan. This chapter presents a meta-analysis summarizing normative patterns of rank-order stability and mean-level change of self-concept clarity. It then reviews evidence for individual variability in the development of self-concept clarity and the mechanisms and outcomes of this variability. Specifically, we consider the current literature regarding the way in which family, identity development, and adult social roles facilitate the development of self-concept clarity. Further, we examine findings that suggest self-concept clarity promotes personality trait maturation and psychological well-being. We close with specific future directions for research in self-concept clarity development across the lifespan.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychological Sciences and Institute for Autism Research, Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, USA

    Jennifer Lodi-Smith

  2. Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy

    Elisabetta Crocetti

Authors
  1. Jennifer Lodi-Smith
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  2. Elisabetta Crocetti
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Correspondence to Jennifer Lodi-Smith .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychological Sciences and Institute for Autism Research, Canisius College, Buffalo, New York, USA

    Jennifer Lodi-Smith

  2. Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, SUNY, Buffalo, New York, USA

    Kenneth G. DeMarree

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Lodi-Smith, J., Crocetti, E. (2017). Self-Concept Clarity Development Across the Lifespan. In: Lodi-Smith, J., DeMarree, K. (eds) Self-Concept Clarity. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71547-6_4

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