The Relationship among Instability of Self-Image, Self-Focused Attention and Psychological Stress Response: The Mediating Effect of Identity

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of identity in the relationships among the instability of self-image, self-focus, and psychological stress responses. University students and graduates were surveyed using a questionnaire to collect data. By performing structural equation modeling, the instability of self-image was found to enhance rumination and identity confusion, and both increased global psychological stress responses. Reflection strengthened identity synthesis and weakened confusion. While confusion increased psychological stress responses, synthesis only weakened apathy. A mediation analysis was performed with the same model. Identity was found to partially mediate the relationship between rumination and psychological stress response and completely mediate the relationship between reflection and psychological stress responses. Based on these results, it can be inferred that identity problem may lead to mental health problems caused by rumination and confusion stemming from the instability of self-image. Interventions targeting the instability of self-image and rumination may be effective in preventing mental health problems.