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Identity-in-the-work and musicians’ struggles: the production of self-questioning identity work

Author

Listed:
  • Nic Beech

    (University of Dundee, UK)

  • Charlotte Gilmore

    (University of Edinburgh, UK)

  • Paul Hibbert

    (University of St Andrews, UK)

  • Sierk Ybema

    (VU University Amsterdam, the Netherlands)

Abstract

Identity work is widely regarded as a process through which people strive to establish, maintain or restore a coherent and consistent sense of self. In the face of potential disruptions of, or threats to, their identities, people seek to salvage their sense of self by resolving tensions and restoring consistency. In contrast to the current identity work literature, this research indicates that identity work is not always about seeking resolution and moving on, but sometimes about continuing struggles which do not achieve a secure sense of self. This article seeks to elaborate the understanding of unresolved identity work by exploring three contexts of the everyday practice of indie musicians. An analysis of how they struggle to construct acceptable versions of their selves as songwriter, bandleader and front(wo)man allows us to develop the conceptualization of self-questioning (as opposed to self-affirmative, resolution-oriented) identity work.

Suggested Citation

  • Nic Beech & Charlotte Gilmore & Paul Hibbert & Sierk Ybema, 2016. "Identity-in-the-work and musicians’ struggles: the production of self-questioning identity work," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 30(3), pages 506-522, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:30:y:2016:i:3:p:506-522
    DOI: 10.1177/0950017015620767
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Mats Alvesson & Hugh Willmott, 2002. "Identity Regulation as Organizational Control: Producing the Appropriate Individual," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 39(5), pages 619-644, July.
    2. Gill Musson & Joanne Duberley, 2007. "Change, Change or Be Exchanged: The Discourse of Participation and the Manufacture of Identity," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 44(1), pages 143-164, January.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    Cited by:

    1. Luca Carollo & Marco Guerci, 2018. "‘Activists in a Suit’: Paradoxes and Metaphors in Sustainability Managers’ Identity Work," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 148(2), pages 249-268, March.

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