Journal of College Student Development

Abstract:

This article describes through the lens of self-authorship development the meaning-making processes of South African postgraduate psychology students who are expected to undergo significant growth as they journey towards becoming mental health professionals. Reflective writing tasks and individual interviews of 4 postgraduate students were thematically analyzed to identify individual pathways as well as salient themes towards self-authorship. Academic challenges and interpersonal relationships were instrumental in these students' finding a sense of self and moving towards greater independence, more defined belief systems, and a perspective that encompasses the future. The research findings highlight participants' nuanced and cyclical journeys as they dealt with experiences and challenges that fostered personal growth, more complex ways of knowing, relational restructuring, and listening to an internal voice.