A Portrait In Words: Using Self-Characterization Sketches as an Innovative Method to Explore Work Identities

Angela McGrane, Viv Burr, Nigel King

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

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Abstract

George Kelly in his Personal Construct Theory conceived self-characterisation sketches as a method for exploring individual views of the self. This chapter illustrates their innovative application as a research method for gaining insights into the changing construal of work identity in a group of undergraduate students as they progressed through their degrees. The process used for collection and analysis of the sketches is described, along with a reflection on what their use added to the research. A case study of one participant illustrates how insights into construal of work identity can be gained by use of the self-characterisation sketch and its analysis protocol. The chapter closes with an outline of limitations and ideas for further development of this innovative approach.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Research Methods for Studying Identity In and Around Organizations
Subtitle of host publicationUsual Suspects and Beyond
EditorsIngo Winkler, Stefanie Reissner, Rosalía Cascón-Pereira
Place of PublicationCheltenham
PublisherEdward Elgar
Chapter15
Pages205-217
Number of pages13
Edition1st
ISBN (Electronic)9781802207972
ISBN (Print)9781802207965
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Jul 2023

Keywords

  • Work Identity
  • Self-Characterization Sketch
  • Personal Construct Theory
  • Construing
  • Work Integrated Learning

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