Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2007
Volume
7
Journal
Identity: An International Journal of Theory and Research
Issue
3
First Page
225
Last Page
253
URL with Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15283480709336932
Abstract
This study concerns the factors that are involved in a change from antisocial and criminal behavior to the development of a prosocial sense of identity in ten Aborigi- nal females. Data were obtained from recorded semi-structured interviews that in- cluded questionnaires and open-ended questions. These women had dysfunctional backgrounds and lifestyles yet ceased such behavior and entered university life. Findings indicated the resilience of these women. They overcame extreme disadvan- tages and “turned around” to develop purposeful and adaptive lives. Gaining a sense of their cultural background and integrating aspects of Aboriginal heritage into their sense of self were interwoven themes in the process. Findings are considered in terms of desistence and identity change from a maladaptive lifestyle with implications for cultural socialization.
