Self-reflective identity processing and psychological maturity: Examining the link between identity and wisdom.

The predictive relationship between the use of an informational identity processing style and wisdom was examined by focusing specifically on the mediating roles of self-reflective capacities (self-reflection, insight, mindfulness, and self-compassion). One hundred and eighty three young adult men (N=51) and women (N=132) completed self-report measures of identity styles, identity commitment, self-reflection, insight, mindfulness, self-compassion, and wisdom, with a subsample (N=60 14 men and 46 women) also completing these measures one year later. The use of an information style was positively related to all self-reflective capacities and to wisdom. In addition, each of the reflective capacities partially mediated the relationship between informational identity processing and wisdom. Contrary to predictions, informational style processing, self-reflection, and insight measured at Time 1 did not predict wisdom measured at Time 2. The results are discussed in terms how the reflective capacities of informational individuals may promote wisdom development. --Leaf ii.