The five-dimensional dual cycle model of identity formation: domain-specific processes and domain-general statuses – evidence from Serbian youth

The five-dimensional dual-cycle model of identity formation includes two commitment dimensions (commitment making and identification with commitment) and three exploration dimensions (exploration in breadth, exploration in depth, and ruminative exploration). The main objective of this correlational, cross-sectional study was to explore whether identity processes, as described by the model, and identity statuses are general or specific across the domains of future goals related to education and friendship. As in previous research a six-factor model, which includes two dimensions of exploration in depth was established, these two models were tested. Two adapted versions of the Dimensions of Identity Development Scale (DIDS) were created, focusing on educational and friendship domains. The sample included 955 high school and university students from urban areas in Serbia. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a domain-specific six-factor identity processes model (CFI = .94, TLI = .93, RMSEA = .04, SRMR = .06). The results of cluster analysis suggest that identity statuses across the domains of future goals related to education and friendship are congruent for most individuals.