Identity Styles and Conflict Resolution Styles: Associations in Mother–Adolescent Dyads

Adolescent identity and parent–adolescent conflict have each attracted considerable research interest. However, few studies
have examined the important link between the two constructs. The present study examined the associations between adolescent
identity processing styles and adolescent conflict resolution styles in the mother–adolescent dyad. Questionnaires about conflict
frequency and resolution were completed by 796 adolescents (66% female, mostly Caucasian) and their mothers. Adolescents also
completed a measure on identity styles. Each identity style was hypothesized to relate to a specific conflict resolution behavior.
Hierarchical regression analyses showed that the information-oriented identity style was positively associated with positive
problem solving and negatively with conflict engagement and withdrawal, the normative style was positively associated with
compliance, and, finally, the diffuse-avoidant style was positively associated with withdrawal and conflict engagement and
negatively with positive problem solving. Our results demonstrated that the way in which adolescents tackle identity-relevant
issues is related to the way in which they deal with conflicts with their mothers. Implications and suggestions for future
research are discussed.