Enhancing the sense of self of peer supporters using life design counselling

Abstract

One of the main challenges experienced during adolescence is that of developing a coherent sense of self, or self-identity (Becht, 2016; Bester & Quinn, 2010; Erickson, 1977). This study used a parallel (or convergent) interactive multi-method design, embedded in an intervention, to explore the possible effects of group based life design counselling on the sense of self of female adolescent peer supporters. The possibility of assisting more individuals by using intervention techniques in groups was also explored. The research study is embedded in a constructivist paradigm and, working from an interpretive stance, the researcher collected, analysed and reported on quantitative and qualitative data to gained insight into the participants’ experiences surrounding narrative group life design techniques and their possible impact on enhancing the sense of self. The overall findings indicate that the intervention programme enhanced the sense of self of the participating peer supporters. The mixed-method research results from this study provide a clearer view of how groups of adolescents can be supported to become better equipped to negotiate transitions in their lives, by enhancing their sense of self.