Due to the relatively common presence of autistic features in the general population, this research explores how identity develops in those with varying degrees of social limitations. Interpersonal functioning is at the cornerstone of both identity and autism; therefore, this study set out to bridge a current gap in research by investigating the relationship between psychosocial identity and autistic features. A sample of adult university students (N = 602) completed measures of autistic traits, identity exploration and commitment, identity distress, and existential anxiety. Autistic features were positively related to identity exploration, identity distress, and existential anxiety, and negatively related to identity commitment. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for enhancing identity-oriented programs aimed at fostering positive youth development through the application of treatment modalities traditionally used to treat individuals with social impairment.

In recent decades, globalization has become a growing concern for developing countries. Eastern countries in particular, who have traditionally adhered to group-focused interests and the development of an interpersonal sense of identity, have endured sweeping changes as Western values, opinions, and attitudes begin to pervade its younger generations. With the ease of connection that technological advances such as the Internet provides, late adolescents and emerging adults must negotiate between adopting an identity that is based on the traditional viewpoints of their local culture and adopting an identity that is consistent with the values of a global culture. In this study, the identity distress reported by 422 late-adolescent college students in India, China, and the United States was compared as it relates to the endorsement of individualistic and collectivistic value systems. Identity distress was found to significantly vary by country, with participants from China and India scoring significantly higher than those in the United States. Collectivism was associated with less identity distress in India and more distress in China. Reasons for this disparity are explored and questions for future research are discussed.

This study explores the unique linkages among identity exploration, identity commitment, existential anxiety, and the different forms (relational and overt) and functions (proactive and reactive) of peer aggression in youth. Participants were high school students (N = 133) aged 15 to 19 years. In terms of zero-order associations, existential anxiety was positively associated with each of the four types of aggression whereas identity exploration and identity commitment were only associated (negatively) with proactive overt aggression. However, in terms of unique associations, identity exploration was negatively associated with proactive aggression (overt and relational) whereas existential anxiety was positively associated with all but proactive relational aggression. Identity commitment was not uniquely associated with any of the forms and functions of aggression. Findings are discussed in terms of consistency with theory as well as unique and possible suppressor relationships. Avenues for additional research on the role of identity development in mitigating peer aggression are explored.

Previous research has indicated a relationship between risk propensity and the Dark Tetrad personality traits (i.e., narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism). No research has yet been conducted to analyze the relationship between Dark Tetrad personality traits and adaptive or maladaptive identity development. Of interest is whether the Dark Tetrad personality traits are related to identity development and how these factors might affect risk propensity or participation in risk-taking behaviors (e.g., drug use). College students (N = 424) completed an anonymous online survey battery. Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism positively predicted maladaptive identity development, while narcissism inversely predicted pathological identity factors and positively predicted consolidated identity. Consolidated identity, disturbed identity, Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy were found to be positive predictors of risk propensity. Finally, narcissism appeared to mediate the relationship between consolidated identity and risk propensity. This study highlights the need for identity-based interventions for adolescents and young adults who may be at risk for delinquent or externalizing behaviors. Further results and their implications are discussed.