Continuity and Change in the Life Story: A Longitudinal Study of Autobiographical Memories in Emerging Adulthood

Abstract

This longitudinal study examines how autobiographical life stories remain stable while also changing during emerging adulthood. College students provided detailed written accounts of important scenes from their lives and repeated the exercise three months later and again three years later.

The researchers analysed the narratives for emotional tone, themes of agency and personal growth, interpersonal connection and narrative complexity. The findings showed substantial continuity over time in narrative complexity and positive emotional tone, as well as meaningful stability in themes of agency and growth.

At the same time, participants’ stories demonstrated developmental change. By the later stage of the study, young adults tended to construct more emotionally positive narratives, show greater emotional nuance and self-understanding, and demonstrate a stronger awareness of their own personal development.

The study provides evidence that narrative identity can display both stability and change as individuals move through emerging adulthood.