Validation of the Dimensions of Identity Development Scale (DIDS) Adapted for Parental Identity (DIDS-PI): Dimensions and Statuses Among Expectant and Current Parents

The Dimensions of Identity Development Scale (DIDS) is a widely used
measure aimed at assessing five identity processes (Exploration in Breadth,
Commitment Making, Exploration in Depth, Identification with Commitment
and Ruminative Exploration). Combining individuals’ scores across these
processes allows the identification of six distinct identity statuses.
Originally developed in the context of nonspecific plans for the future, the
scale was later adapted to examine specific identity-domains. The purpose of
the current study was to adapt the DIDS to measure parental identity (DIDSPI)
and validate both its dimensions and clusters. Our sample included
current (N = 360, 58.3% women, mean age = 34.7) and expectant (N = 171,
56.7% women, mean age = 30.7) Israeli parents, who completed DIDS-PI and
a self-report Personal Growth questionnaire. Results demonstrated that the
hypothesized five-dimensional model fit the data well for both groups.
Cluster analysis further indicated that a six-cluster solution provided the
best fit across groups. Personal Growth correlated with identity statuses
among current parents, which supported the scale’s convergent validity.
The findings suggest that the DIDS-PI is a reliable tool for assessing parental
identity development in current parents, with preliminary evidence supporting
its use among expectant parents, though further validation is needed.