Storytelling: How Narrative Identity Can Reduce the Experience of Poverty through Psychological Well-Being

Abstract

Narrative identity therapy interventions are proven to be effective forms of psychotherapy as they enhance psychological well-being. Narrative therapy enhances psychological well-being by creating coherence and agency in life experiences, purpose in life and social support. The cultivation of these internal resources can also help one to maintain a level of psychological well-being in the face of poverty. Therefore, intervening in poverty with narrative identity could enhance psychological well-being and thus reduce both economic and capability poverty. In doing so, narrative identity would subsequently promote Rawls’ justice as fairness and basic human dignity.