Interpretation in Practice

Abstract

“Interpretation in Practice,” Chapter 8 of A New Narrative for Psychology, compares analytic strategies in two studies central to the canon of narrative psychology: Amia Lieblich’s “Looking at Change: Natasha 21” and Michael Bamberg’s “Form and Functions of ‘Slut Bashing’ in Male Identity Constructions in 15-year-olds.” The two studies provide an excellent contrast between competing approaches to narrative research—big story and small story research. Lieblich’s analysis of Natasha’s transition to life in Israel is holistic, concentrating mostly on the person, while Bamberg’s analysis of a group of 15-year-old boys discussing a girl is microanalytic, emphasizing the linguistic and conversational properties that sculpt identity. The chapter enters into the debate on big and small stories, arguing that despite their differences in approach, they employ the same hermeneutic strategies for understanding narratives and would benefit from a more sustained discussion and consideration of the essential questions of who, where, and when.