Självberättelse

Självberättelse is a Swedish term that translates to "self-narrative" or "personal story." It refers to the ongoing, dynamic story individuals construct about themselves to make sense of their experiences, identity, and place in the world. This narrative is not a static recounting of events but rather an active process of interpretation, selection, and organization of memories and perceptions.

The concept of självberättelse is rooted in psychology and sociology, particularly in theories of identity formation and narrative psychology. It suggests that our sense of self is largely shaped by the stories we tell ourselves and others about who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. These stories can be conscious or unconscious, coherent or fragmented, and are constantly being revised as new experiences occur.

Självberättelse plays a crucial role in maintaining psychological well-being. A coherent and positive self-narrative can foster a sense of continuity, purpose, and self-esteem. Conversely, fragmented or negative self-narratives can be associated with distress, such as depression or anxiety. Therapies that focus on narrative reconstruction aim to help individuals reframe their self-stories in more adaptive ways.

The construction of a självberättelse is influenced by cultural norms, social interactions, and personal values. It involves integrating past experiences, present circumstances, and future aspirations into a meaningful whole. This personal narrative serves as a framework for understanding oneself and navigating social reality.