Dialogical Self Theory
Positioning and Counter-Positioning in a Globalizing Society

This book provides a comprehensive social-scientific theory, incorporating the deep implications of the process of globalization, and its impact on individual development.

Hubert Hermans (Author), Agnieszka Hermans-Konopka (Author)

9781107411746, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 29 November 2012

404 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.1 cm, 0.54 kg

'One of the strongest features of the book and what makes it particularly accessible to readers is, undoubtedly, its many examples and even personal vignettes used to illustrate the theoretical concepts. Personal experiences and case studies from the writers' own work are interwoven skilfully throughout the book. At a time when the social sciences still experience the dichotomy between the individual and the internal, on the one hand, and the social and external on the other, Dialogical Self Theory should be especially welcomed.' Gergana Vitanova, Language and Dialogue

In a boundary-crossing and globalizing world, the personal and social positions in self and identity become increasingly dense, heterogeneous and even conflicting. In this handbook scholars of different disciplines, nations and cultures (East and West) bring together their views and applications of dialogical self theory in such a way that deeper commonalities are brought to the surface. As a 'bridging theory', dialogical self theory reveals unexpected links between a broad variety of phenomena, such as self and identity problems in education and psychotherapy, multicultural identities, child-rearing practices, adult development, consumer behaviour, the use of the internet and the value of silence. Researchers and practitioners present different methods of investigation, both qualitative and quantitative, and also highlight applications of dialogical self theory.

Introduction
1. The impact of globalization and localization on self and identity
2. Self and identity in historical perspective: traditional, modern, post-modern, and dialogical models
3. Positioning theory and dialogue
4. Positioning and dialogue in life-long development
5. A dialogical view of emotions
6. Practical implications for organizations, motivation, and conflict-resolution.

Subject Areas: Psychology [JM], Sociology [JHB]