Marginalization, which is also known as social exclusion, refers to present day forms of social disadvantage or designation to the edge of society. Consequently, the affected communities and individuals cannot participate fully in social, economic and political life of their current society. This marginalization creates some form identity in the minds of the affected community or individuals that hamper their psychological and consequently entire wellbeing. On a positive note, narrative therapy can be employed to change the identity and wellbeing of the affected individuals positively. Aboriginals are an example of a marginalized community.
Narrative therapy holds that broader relations of power, relationships, events, and influences shape the manner in which people perceive the events at the heart of their problem (Carey & Russell, 2003). Through narrative therapy, therapists attempt to re-author individual’s storylines in order for the affected people to identify, as well as co-create healthy story lines.
Aboriginals have been socially excluded; this community is a product of European colonization in which the community lost its land, cultural values and practices, and rights in society. This phenomenon has affected members of the aboriginal community. Narrative therapists come in handy when dealing with such a complex situation. First, narrative therapists can help these people re-author their storylines.
The aboriginals can be made to understand that the historical events that led to their misfortunes have long gone and that they can change their identity for the better in the present times. For instance, narrative therapists can work with these clients to identify current cultural uniqueness that can be exploited for economic purposes. Through narrative therapy, this community can identify its current positive attributes in the midst of the current marginalization and use them to alter their identity for the better.
Reference
Carey, M., & Russell, S. (2003). Re-authoring: some answers to commonly asked questions. The International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, 3, pp1-20
