ABSTRACT

This chapter determines the extent to which these resilient narratives are influenced by the social discourse of the times. It describes how this process of developing a resilient narrative takes place in the context of the family, whether it is functional or dysfunctional, and how it might be influenced by gender. The chapter examines the importance of bearing witness and speaking out against injustice compared with keeping silent and protecting others. It discusses the similarities and differences between the genders in relation to disclosure. The chapter explores the ways in which the social construction of gender affects narrative construction. It considers the difference between heterosexual and homosexual experiences in childhood. The chapter examines possible reasons why some men and women move from victim to victimiser. It focuses on the family environment and the wider social context and how both these impact on people's ability to generate a resilient narrative.