Adolescent identity development in globalizing India: Changes from 2005 to 2017 and links to cultural practices and well-being

This diachronic, cross-temporal study examined changes in adolescents' identities, practices, and well-being during a period of globalization in India. Data were collected from two independent cohorts of primarily Hindu, middle-class adolescents attending the same city schools in 2005 (n = 1,363, Mage = 13.55 (0.95); 45% female) and 2017 (n = 1,052, Mage = 13.65 (0.96), 48% female). Over time, adolescents placed greater value on family and service and engaged in religion less and consumption more. Adolescents endorsed self-related aspirations more (e.g., hedonism), and girls identified more strongly with freedom and wealth in 2017 versus 2005. At both times, traditional identities predicted greater religiosity and well-being, whereas less traditional identities predicted greater consumption. Findings suggest the enduring role of traditional identities for well-being.