Identity-Processing Orientations and the Importance of Single and Multiple Communication Goals for Managing Problematic Events

Diffuse-avoidant, normative, and informative identity-processing orientations were predicted to influence the importance of particular and multiple goals when managing problematic events. Respondents (N = 216) completed identity-processing orientation measures and rated the importance of self-interested, relationship-oriented, partner-focused, and avoidance goals when considering a hypothetical problematic event. Results indicated positive associations between the diffuse/avoidant orientation and avoidance goals, the normative orientation and partner-focused goals, and the information orientation and self-interested goals. There was a negative association between the information orientation and partner-focused goals. The normative and information orientations were positively associated with the importance of multiple goals as well. These results highlight the differential influence of identity on communicative intentions.