Perceived parenting dimensions and identity styles: Exploring the socialization of adolescents' processing of identity-relevant information

This study examined the relationships between crucial dimensions of parents’ rearing style (support, behavioral control, and psychological control) and the three identity styles defined by Berzonsky (1990). Each identity style was hypothesized to relate to a specific pattern of perceived parenting dimensions. Hypotheses were examined in a large sample of middle and late adolescents (N = 674). An information-oriented style was positively predicted by parental support. Contrary to expectations, however, an information-oriented style was also positively predicted by psychological control. A normative identity style was positively predicted by support and behavioral control. In line with expectations, a diffuse-avoidant identity style was positively predicted by psychological control and negatively by maternal (but not paternal) behavioral control. Findings are discussed in light of the literature on the socialization of identity formation and directions for future research are outlined.