Applications of Dialogical Self Theory New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development, Number 137

by Hermans, Hubert J.

• ISBN13: 9781118445136
• ISBN10: 1118445139
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-09-19
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Summary

In an increasingly interconnected world, a dialogical self is not only possible but even necessary. People are closer together than ever, yet they are confronted with apparent and sometimes even insurmountable differences. While there is a need of increased dialogue between individuals, groups, and cultures, it is equally important to develop of dialogical potentials within the self of the individual person. Elaborating on these concerns, the authors present and discuss a Dialogical Self Theory based on the assumption that the self functions as a society of mind. The self is not simply participating in a "surrounding" society, but functions itself as a mini-society, which is, at the same time, part of the society at large. The authors: Present the theory in detail Explore the developmental origins of the dialogical self Elaborate on the identity development of adolescents growing up in multicultural societies Discuss a striking example of a social movement in India, where individual and collective voices merge in a nationwide protest. This is the 137 th volume in this series. Its mission is to provide scientific and scholarly presentations on cutting edge issues and concepts in child and adolescent development. Each volume focuses on a specific new direction or research topic and is edited by experts on that topic.

Table of Contents

1. Dialogical Self Theory and the Increasing Multiplicity of I-Positions in a Globalizing Society: An Introduction 1
Hubert J. M. Hermans

In this introductory text, the author sets forth the origin and main tenets of Dialogical Self Theory in the context of a globalizing society, with special attention to the experience of uncertainty.

2. Self and Other Dialogue in Infancy: Normal Versus Compromised Developmental Pathways 23
Sarah Ahlander Stone, Ilse DeKoeyer-Laros, Alan Fogel

Dialogical Self Theory, co-regulation, and foundational movement analysis are used to present a description of the development of the dialogical self during the first five months of life.

3. Multicultural Adolescents Between Tradition and Postmodernity: Dialogical Self Theory and the Paradox of Localization and Globalization 39
Toon van Meijl

The author explores the identity development of adolescents growing up in multicultural societies and analyzes their dilemmas from the perspective of the self as a “society of mind.”

4. Mental Sociality and Collective Identity: A Dialogical Analysis of the Indian Sense of Self 53
Nandita Chaudhary

The focus of this chapter is on a social protest movement in India that illustrates how personal and collective meanings emerge as voices in the self as a society of mind, with special emphasis on intra- and intergroup dynamics.

5. Bridging Theory: Where Cultures Meet in Self and Science 69
Lene Arnett Jensen

In her reflections, the author discusses and evaluates this special issue as a whole.

INDEX 73