Journal of International Psychiatry

Objective: To explore the relationship among ego-identity status, self-esteem and fear of intimacy; to explore the role of self-esteem between ego-identity status and fear of intimacy. Methods: Subjects were selected by random cluster sampling method and assessed with a series of questionnaires including the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, Extend Objective Measure of Ego-Identity Status-2, Fear of Intimacy Scale. 502 effectual questionnaires were retaken. Results: Ego-identity achievement status had negative correlation with fear of intimacy （r=-0.30，P<0.01）, and ego-identity diffusion status had positive correlation with fear of intimacy（r=0.25，P<0.01）.Four dimensions of ego-identity status had significant correlation with self-esteem（r=-2.87~0.317,P<0.01）.Self-esteem acted as a mediator between fear of intimacy and ego-identity achievement status. Self-esteem acted as a mediator between fear of intimacy and ego-identity diffusion status. Conclusion: It suggests that people with negative ego-identity status may have difficulty in developing intimate relationship. Self-esteem may be a mediator variable between ego-identity status and fear of intimacy. People with negative ego-identity status may have low self-esteem. People with low self-esteem may have difficulty in developing intimate relationship. 【Key words】ego-identity status; self-esteem; fear of intimacy

ego-identity status; self-esteem; fear of intimacy