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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