A Study of Relationship between Neuroticism, Ambiguity Intolerance, Identity Commitment and Meaning in Life among Emerging Adults

Abstract

Emerging Adulthood is characterized by diverse life choices, instability and exploration. During adulthood, individuals deeply invest in love, work and worldviews, gradually developing a sense of purpose by making lasting commitments about life. The current study aims to investigate role of Neuroticism, Ambiguity Intolerance, Identity commitment on Meaning in life among emerging adults. The study was conducted on 106 participants enrolled as a students. Participants completed Neo FFI Scale - (Neuroticism), Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale -Short version (IUS-12), Ego Identity Process Questionnaire (EIPQ) and Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). Pearson’s product-moment correlation revealed insignificant relationship between Neuroticism and Meaning in Life. The result was also insignificant for Ambiguity Intolerance and Meaning in life. The correlation analysis was found to be significant for Identity Commitment and Meaning in life. Further, regression analysis revealed that meaning in life significantly predicted Identity commitment (p <.001). Welch’s t-test revealed insignificant gender differences. These results will aid in understanding factors influencing meaning in life. Psychologists and other working professionals can use these findings to understand factors influencing and obstructing meaning in life. As meaning in life is related to resilience, better psychological health and more adaptive coping skills especially during the challenging developmental stage like emerging adulthood.