Identity Narrative Density: Preliminary findings from scoring emotional valence of autobiographical events

Autobiographical Memory is a form of declarative episodic memory known to have a significant role in identity, self-regulation, and socialization. Conceivably, it may also influence outcome of psychopathology. This is a preliminary report in which the authors are proposing the notion of Identity Narrative (IdN), a set of implicit memories acquired throughout life and consolidated according to a gradient of emotional valence. IdN may constitute an implicit scaffolding for autobiographical memory. Identity Narrative Density (IND) is a score of emotional valence referring to life events that contribute to the construction of an IdN. The authors are proposing an equation of IND that provides a quantitative assessment of an individual's emotional life experiences and possible resilience in the face of trauma and adversities of life.