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Separation-individuation and identity development in at-risk youth

The relationship between separation–individuation and identity development was investigated in a sample of runaway/homeless adolescents (N = 83). Participants were 18–21 years (M = 19.4, SD = 0.86). The ethnic distribution consisted of 50.6% African American, 24.1% European American, 18.1% Hispanic American and 7.2% Other. Participants provided demographic information and completed the Separation Individuation Test of Adolescence (SITA) and the Ego Identity Process Questionnaire. The hypotheses that Healthy Separation (one of the nine SITA variables) would predict Identity Exploration and Identity Commitment were not supported. Hierarchical regression analyses yielded only one statistically significant finding: Practicing Mirroring (a SITA subscale that measures narcissistic self-confidence derived from feedback from others) predicted Identity Commitment scores. These results support the importance of caregiver encouragement during the identity development process. Consideration of the separation– individuation process in this population and its role in identity development are reviewed as implications for intervention within out-of-home placements.