Master narratives as imperatives: A qualitative study of adolescent identity experiences

In this study, we explore the influence of culture on adolescent identity formation, using the recently postulated master narrative framework. Most identity research using the framework thus far has departed from specific, a priori defined master narratives and domains. However, considering the rapidly changing and globalized sociocultural landscape, it is vital to consider contemporary developments and investigate what master narratives guide and constrain today's adolescents' identities. We therefore take a qualitative, bottom-up approach, examining adolescents' narratives without a priori defining what master narratives to focus on. Our study consisted of a reflexive thematic analysis of 15 focus groups interviews reaching a total of 72 Flemish adolescents. We developed three master narratives, each consisting of two contradicting imperatives. “I should be myself, but also fit in,” “I can be anything I want, but must be realistic,” and “I need to be happy now, but also work to be happy later.” The study underscores the importance of understanding adolescent identity formation as the dynamic navigation of multiple, contradicting sociocultural discourses. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the way current adolescent identity is embedded within the all-encompassing social organization of neoliberal capitalism.