Presents a study on the psychodynamics of work in order to analyze students' relationship to their work organization in an economic context characterized by competition, job insecurity, and anxiety about the future. Collective defense mechanisms were identified, including silence, individualism, isolation, and endurance. (Contains 27 references.)…

College students (n=71) completed inventory of adaptively regressive experiences and Identity Status Interview. Found that Moratorium status students (actively engaged in identity formation) showed greater disposition to adaptive regression than did individuals in other statuses. Findings support view that adaptive regression may serve function in…