Identity Development and Romantic Relationships in the Late Twenties in Sweden

• This two-wave study investigates identity status and content of identity narratives concerning romantic relationships. Results revealed no difference in identity status distributions in the romantic relationships domain at age 25 (N = 136) compared to age 29 (N = 124). However, while 54% were stable in identity status, 46% changed identity status between measurements. Romantic relationships were expected to involve loyalty, openness, stability, togetherness, and intimacy. A majority wanted to get married and the reasons mainly involved practical advantages and symbolical meaning. This study illustrates how romantic relationships are important identity contexts and salient identity issues in the late twenties.

Subject headings

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

kon (subject category)