Autodiscrepancias y relaciones interpersonales en la adolescencia

Abstract

Self-discrepancies and interpersonal relationships in adolescence. The Self-Discrepancy Theory (Higgins, 1987) has become very fruitful when it is applied to adulthood, but there is a paucity of studies dealing with this theory and adolescence even though it is a suitable period of growth for different selves. The aim of the present study is to analyze the relationships among Actual/Ideal and Actual/Social Self-Discrepancies and some interpersonal variables. The results show that these adolescents were more Ideal than Actual and that the Actual-Ideal discrepancy magnitude was associated with a lack of compromise and self-sufficiency. On the other hand, when Real/Social discrepancy is closer to the Social Self no specific interpersonal characteristics emerge. However, when it is closer to the Real Self, a pattern of hostility and lack of confidence in others appears. The discussion deals with these results and new directions for research.