Konstruksjon av identitetsfortellinger i barns sosiale lek

The study investigates how children construct identity narratives in social play, with a particular focus on the process rather than the narratives themselves. The researcher highlights children’s collective identity formation and explores which features characterise this process, with emphasis on the construction of a ‘we-community’ and how this can create both inclusive and exclusionary dynamics among children. The research question is: How do children construct identity narratives through play in kindergarten?

The study shows that children construct collective identity narratives. They create a ‘we’ community, where the interaction is characterised by congruence, closeness, and a listening and open body posture. At the same time, this can result in the drawing of boundaries, because a ‘we’ also implies a ‘them’ who are different from us. Another boundary may be related to which aspects of individuals are accepted within the shared ‘we’. This can lead to pedagogical challenges.

The study uses video observations of playful interaction in one kindergarten department with children aged three to six years old. The observations were made over three semesters, with a total recording of 1.5 to 2.5 hours daily for five days per semester. The observations provide insight into children’s nonverbal communication and their play patterns.

Zachrisen, B. (2022). Konstruksjon av identitetsfortellinger i barns sosiale lek. Nordisk barnehageforskning, 19(2)