Factors Affecting Ego-Identity of Middle-aged Women in Geoje City

중년여성의 자아정체감과 관련요인 연구

Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate the levels of ego-identity and related factors in middle-aged women who lived in G city. Methods: The participants in this descriptive study were 437 middle-aged (40-60 year old) women. Data were collected from January to February, 2006. Personal interviews with a structured questionnaire (9 items of general characteristics, 30 items of subjects' characteristics related to health and 56 items of ego-identity) were conducted used. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: Ego-identity was significantly associated with the variables of age, educational level, monthly income, living with the parents of the subject's husband, number of children, smoking. exercise, depression, perceived health status, and satisfaction of marital status (p<0.05). In multiple linear regression analysis of the subjects' characteristics which were significantly associated with ego-identity, monthly income, living with the parents of the subject's husband, and depression were significant variables (p<0.05). Conclusion: It is necessary to study the depression of middle-aged women in Geoje city and develop programs with consideration for the significant factors which can improve their ego-identity.