Exploring the Role of Nationality, Gender and Educational Level on the Possible Selves of Greek and UK Young Adults from Divorced and Intact Families

ABSTRACT

Research suggests that parental divorce affects offspring's later life. The present study explores the long-term effects of parental divorce on UK and Greek young adults possible selves concerning future family life, friendships and occupation taking account of the mediating role of nationality, gender and educational level. The sample consisted of 332 Greek and UK postgraduate University students. They completed a questionnaire concerning possible selves. The findings showed that culture rather than the status of parental family was the main factor differentiating between individual's possible selves. There were few gender differences although the individual's educational level appeared to be a significant mediating factor particularly for the Greek participants. The findings are discussed in relation to cross-cultural differences in attitudes towards divorce.