Longitudinal directive effect of need satisfaction in self-defining memories on friend related identity processing styles and friend satisfaction

Research suggests that identity and memory are deeply interconnected, but little is known about the identity processes and the memory characteristics involved in this interaction. We employed a longitudinal design to examine relations between the satisfaction of autonomy, relatedness, and competence needs in self-defining memories and identity processing styles within the domain of friendship. We also assessed satisfaction with friends to evaluate the relation of identity processes and memory characteristics to well-being in friendships. Participants were 166 students who responded twice (at about a two-year interval) to the Identity processing style Inventory-3 and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. We adapted these measures to tap into the domain of friendships, which is an important aspect of young adults’ identity. Participants also described a friend-related self-defining memory and rated the degree of need satisfaction they experienced in that event. A cross-lagged panel analysis revealed that memory need satisfaction predicted increases in informational identity processing style and friend satisfaction over time. Implications for the directive function of memory in identity are discussed.