Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 8, 2026

Assessing the Coherence of Parents' Short Narratives Regarding their Child Using the Five-Minute Speech Sample Procedure
Published on: September 19, 2019
Functions of Parental Intergenerational Narratives Told by Young People
Natalie Merrill1, Jordan A Booker1, Robyn Fivush1
1Department of Psychology, Emory University.
Abstract:
Family stories help shape identity and provide a foundation for navigating life events during adolescence and early adulthood. However, little research examines the types of stories passed onto adolescents and emerging adults, the extent to which these stories are retained and accessible, and the potentially influential parental- and self-identity content constructed in telling these stories. Across three samples, we investigate the accessibility and functions of intergenerational narratives that adolescents and emerging adults know of their parents. By examining adolescents' open-ended intergenerational stories, emerging adults' intergenerational stories of parents' transgression and proud moments, and emerging adults' intergenerational stories of parents' self-defining moments, we systematically describe the functions of various intergenerational stories during adolescence and early adulthood, when identity is in formation. We found that adolescents and emerging adults can readily recount intergenerational stories from parents, and that many of these stories serve to build relationships with the parent, provide insights about parents, provide insights about self, and transmit life lessons. The specific findings by narrative topic and by gender of both participant and parent are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Parental Care
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative...
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition
PN can be administered through two primary routes:
1. Central Parenteral Nutrition (CPN):
CPN involves delivering a high concentration of nutrients through a large vein. This is typically achieved using a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) or,...
Functional Groups

