Abstract

This paper explores the influences of parenting and identity on decision-making style. Although links have been found between certain aspects of (1) parenting and identity, (2) identity and decision-making, and (3) parenting and decision-making, no study prior to this one, has examined all three variables together. In a college sample (N = 136), parental psychological control was found to be associated with ruminative identity exploration and identity distress. In regard to decision-making, Rational Decision-Making style was found to be related to identity exploration and identity commitment, while Spontaneous Decision-Making was associated with parental Psychological Control. A hypothesis that identity would mediate the relationship between parenting and decision-making was tested, and while none of the variables met criteria, the one that came closest was Ruminative Identity Exploration and Identity Distress potentially mediating the relationship between parental Psychological Control and Avoidant Decision-Making. Future studies may want to replicate and explore this possibility further.

Thesis Completion

2019

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Berman, Steven

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2019

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Included in

Psychology Commons

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