Ethnic identity formation: From stage theory to a constructivist narrative model

Author(s): ShorterGooden, K.

Journal/Book: Psychotherapy. 1999; 36: 3900 E Camelback Rd #200, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA. Amer Psychological Assoc, Div Psychotherapy. 16-26.

Abstract: A constructivist narrative approach to ethnic identity development is proposed as an alternative to traditional stage models of ethnic identity. Instead of conceptualizing identity as a linear, sequential unfolding, ethnic identity is seen as a narrative, shaped by contemporary and historical exchanges with one's family, friends, institutions, and the broader culture, It is argued that a constructivist narrative approach is more effective than the stage-model approach in capturing the diversity of identity-shaping experiences that define the lives of people of color, Several guidelines are proposed for utilizing a constructivist approach, to ethnic identity, also called the ethnic self-narrative, in psychotherapy. The proposed approach to ethnic identity is illustrated through a case study of a Korean American male client suffering from trauma related to interethnic conflict with African Americans.

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Keyword(s): PSYCHOLOGICAL NIGRESCENCE; PSYCHOTHERAPY; BLACK

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