Using a Personal Portfolio for Identity Development with an Adolescent

Abstract

This article reports on the findings of an instrumental case study that was exploratory and descriptive in nature. An open and flexible investigation was conducted with the purpose of gaining insight into the potential value of using a personal portfolio to facilitate an adolescent's quest for identity development. The focus was on how a personal portfolio could facilitate the narration of the participant's life story and what the outcome was on self-understanding. Findings suggest that compiling a personal portfolio enabled an awareness of personal assets and an overall improved sense of self-worth and self-confidence.

Keywords:

• personal portfolio
• adolescence
• identity
• identity development
• identity crisis
• self-exploration
• post-modern approach
• narratives
• life story