Ego-integrity in the Second Half of Life

G.J. Westerhof; D.P. McAdams; E.T. Bohlmeijer

doi:10.1093/geront/gns068

Ego-integrity in the Second Half of Life

G.J. Westerhof, D.P. McAdams, E.T. Bohlmeijer

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Abstract

Relatively few empirical studies exist on Eriksons’ intriguing concept of ego-integrity. The present study examines ego-integrity, using the Northwestern Ego Integrity Scale (NEIS) in a Dutch study (55-95 years; N=163). The NEIS measures (1) ‘integrity’, i.e. drawing meaning from all life experiences and (2) ‘despair’, i.e. having regrets about the course of one’s life. Step-wise multivariate regression analyses show that ‘integrity’ is related to time perspective (reminiscence and hope) and mental health, whereas ‘despair’ is only related to personality characteristics (neuroticism and openness to experience). All relations hold in two age groups (55-74 versus 75-95 years). The study shows that the NEIS is a reliable and valid measure of ego integrity. As there is no
evidence of age differences, ego integrity is an important concept across the second half of life. Given the pattern of relations, the promotion of meaning in life is an interesting target for psychosocial interventions.

Original language	English
Pages (from-to)	22-22
Number of pages	1
Journal	The Gerontologist
Volume	51
Issue number	Suppl. 2
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gns068
Publication status	Published - 18 Nov 2011
Event	64th Annual Scientific Meeting of The Gerontological Society of America 2011: Lifestyle→Lifespan - Boston, United States Duration: 18 Nov 2011 → 22 Nov 2011 Conference number: 64

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Westerhof, G. J., McAdams, D. P., & Bohlmeijer, E. T. (2011). Ego-integrity in the Second Half of Life. The Gerontologist, 51(Suppl. 2), 22-22. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gns068

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10.1093/geront/gns068