Are the Benefits of Self-Complexity Conditional? Evidence for the Strengthening (and Weakening) Role of Multiplex Ties

The purpose of this chapter is to contextualize mixed findings in the self-complexity literature. Self-complexity (when individuals' identity meanings do not overlap) theoretically buffers negative outcomes associated with distressing experiences, like identity non-verification (perceptions that others see individuals differently than individuals see themselves). However, research on self-complexity overlooks the social context in which these processes occur. Here, the author argues that multiplexity (when individuals are connected in two or more role relationships) provides meaningful context that influences whether self-complexity functions as a buffer. This leads to two competing arguments: (1) multiplexity enhances the self-complexity buffering effect and (2) multiplexity undermines the self-complexity buffering effect.

Using egocentric network survey data from 314 US adults, the author ran four regression models (two for the friend identity, two for the coworker identity). These models test whether self-complexity moderates the effect of non-verification on distress when individuals do (or do not) have multiplex ties in which they are close friends with their coworkers.

Multiplex ties amplify the buffering effect of self-complexity when non-verification occurs in the coworker identity, but multiplex ties weaken the buffering effect of self-complexity when non-verification occurs in the friend identity.

This work supports the idea that the benefits associated with self-complexity are conditional on social context as well as identity context. Future research should consider these realities when examining how identity and buffering processes relate to wellbeing.

This work integrates social network analysis and identity theory to reconcile mixed findings in the literature on self-complexity.