"Luxembourgish" as an identity anchor : building resilience through retrospective storytelling
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[EMBARGOED UNTIL 12/01/2025] This dissertation investigates how individuals in Luxembourg communicatively constitute resilience. Grounded in the communication theory of resilience (CTR) and communicated narrative sense-making (CNSM) theory, this qualitative study compares narratives of people living in Luxembourg, including first-generation migrants (n = 15) and people born in Luxembourg (n = 15). Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed a Luxembourgish identity anchor encompassing roots, privilege, and a complex relationship with Luxembourg. Resilience emerged narratively through this identity anchor in three ways: creating your own space, considering everything as temporary, and keeping up appearances. Although participants' stories reflected elements of resilience that are deemed universal, such as maintaining a positive outlook, these were deeply influenced by cultural norms. These findings highlight the salience of identity in constructing resilience and emphasize the role of cultural context in shaping resilience processes. This dissertation advances CTR and CNSM theory by illuminating how resilience and privilege can co-exist, how roots can both foster and inhibit resilience, and how tensions of belonging can build resilience. Additionally, it demonstrates the value of studying resilience through the lens of identity. Practical applications are explored to enhance understanding and support for multicultural families
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Ph. D.