Role of Parental Attachment and Personality Traits in Identity Formation of Emerging Adults

The transition into the college years is denoted as a crucial period of metamorphosis, identified as a pronounced shift from dependence on parents towards the intricacies of self. In this study, the roots of this transition were explored by examining the extent to which the quality of early relational bonds and inherent dispositional traits facilitate identity. The role of parental attachment was analysed as the psychological security required for identity exploration, while personality traits were examined as the internal compasses guiding this journey. A quantitative assessment was conducted with a sample of students (N = 120). Through this research, the personal nature of identity was highlighted. Gender differences were observed in variables of Conscientiousness, Agreeableness and Parental care. Furthermore, significant correlations were observed between identity sub-dimensions and parental attachment, between identity subdimensions and personality traits, as well as between personality traits and parental attachment. It was suggested that by understanding the link between attachment history, personality traits, and identity formation, more holistic support could be provided to students as they strive for resilience, purpose, and a meaningful life