Autobiographical reasoning: arguing and narrating from a biographical perspective

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Narrative Psychology

Background:

• Autobiographical reasoning involves constructing a coherent life story by relating past, present, and future experiences.
• This process integrates personal memories within cultural, temporal, causal, and thematic frameworks.
• It is influenced by cultural and social interactions, particularly during late childhood and adolescence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define and present prototypical autobiographical arguments.
• To explore the role of autobiographical reasoning in personality and identity development.
• To examine its function in coping with life events and creating shared histories.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of autobiographical reasoning.
• Integration of findings from cognitive and narrative development research.
• Examination of autobiographical memory processes.

Main Results:

• Prototypical autobiographical arguments were presented.
• Autobiographical reasoning was identified as a key factor in personality and identity formation.
• Its instrumental role in coping and social cohesion was highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Autobiographical reasoning is a fundamental cognitive and narrative process.
• It significantly contributes to psychological development and adaptation.
• Cultural and social factors play a vital role in its development and function.