The role of stories in understanding life events: poststructural construction of the 'self'.

An appreciation of the construction of the 'self' has the potential to enhance nursing practice. The 'self' within post-structuralism is fashioned through the social discourses and beliefs of the day. These socio-cultural determinants shape the individual and provide meaning for life events. Storytelling and the sharing of stories about these events play a key role in this process. In integrating narrative stories about 'self', individuals are provided with a link to their culture and cultural practices. Events, such as accommodating change or coming to terms with an illness diagnosis, require complex adjustments to the individual's already held identity of 'self'. Sharing stories plays a part in this adjustment and is the principal means by which individuals make sense of their experiences. This understanding of storytelling when caring for patients can encourage the nurse to exchange stories in order to provide opportunities for patients to tell their own stories.