Structure of the sense of identity in adolescents: Development of the Multidimensional Ego Identity Scale (MEIS)

The puroposes of the present study were to develop the Multidimensional Ego Identity Scale (MEIS) and to examine the structure of the sense of identit y in adolescents. 4 components of ego identity derived from Erikson's descr iptions were hypothesized : (1) Self-Sameness, Continuity; (2) Self Identit y; (3) Interpersonal Identity; and (4) Psychosocial Identity. The 20-item M EIS was completed by 390 university students (153 men, and 237 women) 18-22 years old, mean age 19.6, from two universities. Factor analysis yielded 4 factors which corresponded with the hypothesized 4 components. High reliab ility of the MEIS was confirmed by results of measures of internal consiste ncy, test-retest reliability, and stability of factor structure. Concurrent validity, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the MEIS were assessed by correlational analysis and factor analysis. In addition, constr uct validity was examined from a developmental perspective. The results sho wed that the MEIS had high reliability and validity, and that adolescents' sense of identity consists of the hypothesized 4-component structure.