Role-Identity Correspondence in the College Student Role

Role-identity correspondence refers to the similarity between an identity, self-meanings in a particular social situation, and role, shared meanings associated with the occupancy of a social position. While a role may serve as a reference point for an identity, self-behaviors and responses may lead individuals to create identities which are more similar to the meanings of other roles. This research uses self, significant other, and social background variables to explore factors which may influence the development of an identity in the college student role. Findings include (1) that perceived support and agreement from significant others, self-esteem, salience, and psychological commitment encourage individuals to select identities similar to future stages in the educational-occupational career; and (2) that father's occupation and social commitment encourage identities similar to the college student role. The findings suggest that role-identity correspondence is not automatic and should not be taken for granted.