Identity development in cultural context: The role of deviating from master narratives

Kate C. McLean; Jennifer P. Lilgendahl; Chelsea Fordham; Elizabeth Alpert; Emma Marsden; Kathryn Szymanowski; Dan P. McAdams

doi:10.1111/jopy.12341

journal article Sep 26, 2017

Identity development in cultural context: The role of deviating from master narratives

Kate C. McLean

Jennifer P. Lilgendahl Chelsea Fordham Elizabeth Alpert Emma Marsden Kathryn Szymanowski Dan P. McAdams

Journal of Personality Vol. 86 No. 4 pp. 631-651 · Wiley

View at Publisher Save 10.1111/jopy.12341

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe great majority of research on identity and personality development has focused on individual processes of development, to the relative neglect of the cultural context of development. We employ a recently articulated framework for the examination of identity development in context, centered on the construct of master narratives, or culturally shared stories.MethodAcross four studies, we asked emerging and midlife adults (N = 512) to narrate personal experiences of deviations from these master narratives.ResultsAcross three quantitative studies, we show that (a) those who elaborated their deviation experiences were more likely to be in structurally marginalized positions in society (e.g., ethnic or sexual minorities); (b) those who elaborated an empowering alternative to the master narrative were more likely to be engaged in identity processes; and (c) master narratives maintain their rigidity by the frequency of their use. In study 4, using qualitative analyses, we illustrate the rigidity of master narratives, as well as the degree to which they take shape in social and group experiences.ConclusionsThese studies emphasize the importance of cultural context in considering personality and identity development.

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Details

Published: Sep 26, 2017
Vol/Issue: 86(4)
Pages: 631-651
License: View

Authors

K

Kate C. McLean

Western Washington University

J

Jennifer P. Lilgendahl

Haverford College

C

Chelsea Fordham

Western Washington University

Haverford College

Haverford College

Haverford College

Northwestern University

Funding

Foley Family Foundation

Cite This Article

Kate C. McLean, Jennifer P. Lilgendahl, Chelsea Fordham, et al. (2017). Identity development in cultural context: The role of deviating from master narratives. Journal of Personality, 86(4), 631-651. https://doi.org/10.1111/jopy.12341

Identity development in cultural context: The role of deviating from master narratives

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