Definitionv1DF-1100

Redemption narrative

a personal story structure where bad experiences are framed as leading to good outcomes, which research shows produces greater resilience, well-being, and generativity than contamination narratives

Why This Is a Definition

Genus: story structure where bad leads to good. Differentia: produces resilience (McAdams research).

Source Lessons

Redemption narratives

Stories where bad experiences lead to good outcomes produce more resilience.

Contamination narratives

Stories where good experiences are ruined by bad events produce more helplessness.

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