The role of exploration and critical decision making and problem solving in making life choices

Authors

Ondina Arrufat, Florida International University

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Major/Program

Psychology

First Advisor's Name

William M. Kurtines

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Luis A. Escovar

Third Advisor's Name

Wendy K. Silverman

Fourth Advisor's Name

Patricia Telles-Irvin

Date of Defense

11-18-1997

Abstract

Although the literature on the types of abilities and processes that contribute to identity formation has been growing, the research has been mainly descriptive/correlational. This dissertation conducted an experimental investigation of the role of two theoretically distinct processes (exploration and critical problem solving) in identity formation, one of the first to be reported. The experimental training design (pre-post, training versus control) used in this study was intended to promote identity development by fostering an increase in the use of exploration and critical problem solving with respect to making life choices. Participants included 53 psychology students from a large urban university randomly assigned to each group. The most theoretically significant finding was that the intervention was successful in inducing change in the ability to use critical skills in resolving life decisions, as well as effecting a positive change in identity status.

Identifier

FI14032351

Recommended Citation

Arrufat, Ondina, "The role of exploration and critical decision making and problem solving in making life choices" (1997). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1316.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1316