The Threatened Identity: An Empirical Study

Abstract

The ThreaTeneD IDenTITy: an empIrIcal STuDy * This study explores the phenomenon of threatened identity that occurs because of significant, often abrupt changes in human life. as a result of a difficult experience, decision, change of cultural environment, loss of someone or something very important, an individual may feel he/she is someone different than before. Thus, establishing the continuity of one's personal identity may be a problem. In a report on this type of situation Glynis Breakwell (1986) proposes the term "threatened identity. " She places it in the context of her structural model of identity. The present study is aimed at investigating possible images of threatened identity and characterizing them from the point of view of narrative sequences, the affective level and the ultimate -positive or negative -consequences of the individual's functioning. With regard to these aspects, five types of threatened identity have been distinguished from the empirical evidence: (1) the constructive re-evaluation, (2) the key experience, (3) the stable narrative sequence, (4) the seeking of power and autonomy and (5) the loss of part of oneself.

Postures of protest: the reinterpretation of FAK folk songs as expressions of (a new) nationalism and nostalgia

“…In terms of an overarching postural reading, Maree's "Vat jou goed en trek, Ferreira" is suggestive of meaninglessness. It is an iconic example of Brygola's (2011) 'threatened identity' in imparting the idea of 'the loss of part of oneself', as well as fear of an uncertain future (see Vanderhaegen 2004: 1). Even though Maree is seemingly indecisive about 'staying' or 'leaving', the song projects ideologically biased thought on new South African culture and identity (see Schutte and Visagie 2012: 115ff).…”

“…In admonishing the pretences of false political redress ('because what was wrong is still left and right') Zoid in this song takes on a stance of 'self-othering' (see Vanderhaegen 2004: 1). Implying the type of 'threatened identity' termed by Brygola (2011) the 'constructive re-evaluation of the self', her version of "Vat jou goed en trek, Ferreira" infers that those Afrikaners who want to preserve a strong sense of cultural identity, should gather their possessions and leave the country. In postural terms the song constitutes taking care morally both of the own group and the other.…”