The relationship between relationship styles, coping strategies, identity development status and mental health among Chinese young adult learners

Objective: To test a model integrating theories of attachment, coping and identity development to predict mental health of Chinese adolescents in the context of romantic relationships. Method: 181 Chinese tertiary students aged 18 to 25 completed a questionnaire assessing attachment, romantic relationship style, coping, identity development, mental health. Results: Multiple regression indicated mental health was negatively predicted by avoidance and self-punishment coping strategies and positively predicted by accommodation coping and secure relationship style. Immature identity and insecure relationship styles were associated. Conclusions: Identity, coping and romantic relationship styles are important issues to consider in supporting adolescents facing issues of intimacy.