ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the function of self-narrative in fostering the sense of self. The creation of a self-narrative requires connecting the recital of life events with their relational and emotional meanings, a process reported by neurologists to foster neural integration. The role psychodynamic psychotherapy can play in the creation of a cohesive narrative is examined. Negative influences on the self-narrative are identified. These include (1) mood congruence of memory retrieval, which shifts the depressed older adult’s recall of memories toward negative ones, (2) moral injury, since regrets of harm done to others may sour an entire narrative, (3) the nature of the relatedness to the listener, whether external or internal, and (4) social narratives. Clinical illustrations are provided.
