Time orientation and identity formation: Long‐term longitudinal dynamics in emerging adulthood1

• Published in: Japanese psychological research Vol. 54; no. 3; pp. 274 - 284
• Main Authors: SHIRAI, TOSHIAKI, NAKAMURA, TOMOYASU, KATSUMA, KUMIKO
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Melbourne, Australia Blackwell Publishing Asia 01.09.2012
• Subjects: bivariate latent growth curve models; emerging adulthood; identity; longitudinal study; time perspective
• ISSN: 0021-5368; 1468-5884
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-5884.2012.00528.x

This study explores how time orientation causes identity formation in emerging adulthood. We assume identity formation can be led by a balanced time orientation, which is defined as a time orientation with which individuals not only pursue a future goal but also combine it with living fully in the present. We used a long‐term longitudinal design. The participants (N = 181), who were college students at the beginning of this investigation, were followed from age 20–31 years. They were asked to answer a questionnaire that was composed of the Time Orientation Questionnaire (TOQ) and the Identity Status Scale (ISS). A bivariate latent growth curve model using the data at age 24, 27, and 30 years revealed that, as predicted, a balanced time orientation contributed to identity development. We mainly discuss the results of the analyses in terms of the role of a balanced time orientation in revising identity as they accommodate a wider range of life experiences during the transition to adulthood.