From social anxiety to identity formation: The bridging roles of self-esteem and speech avoidance

Adolescence is a critical developmental period during which individuals form a coherent sense of identity -a process that can be disrupted by emotional difficulties. While general anxiety symptoms have been extensively studied in relation to identity formation, the specific contribution of social anxiety remains underexplored. This sixmonth longitudinal study examined how adolescents' social anxiety relates to three dimensions of identity formation: commitment, in-depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment. The study also investigated the mediating roles of selfesteem and avoidance of speech situations. A multi-informant design was employed, drawing on self-reports from 186 adolescents aged 12–18 and their parents. Mediation analyses revealed that higher levels of social anxiety were indirectly associated with lower identity commitment and greater reconsideration of commitment, primarily through reduced self-esteem and increased avoidance of speech situations. For in-depth exploration, avoidance of speech situations emerged as the sole significant mediator. These findings were consistent across both adolescent- and parent-reported models. By identifying self-esteem and speech avoidance as key mediators, the study offers both theoretical insights and clinically relevant guidance for early identification and intervention strategies aimed at supporting identity development in socially anxious adolescents. Highlights • Social anxiety hinders the process of identity formation in adolescents. • It is linked to reduced commitment and increased identity reconsideration. • Self-esteem and speech avoidance mediate effects on identity development. • Multi-informant design captures both adolescent and parent perspectives. • Findings offer theoretical and practical insights for intervention efforts.