Storytelling, Narrative, and the Thematic Apperception Test

Book excerpt: This volume is about a particular kind of story-telling. Known as the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), it is a systematic approach to story-telling that provides clinicians with an effective method for investigating those original and highly personal themes that constitute the unique personality of each individual. The first half of the book illuminates the meaning of narratives and the second half explores their implications for therapeutic understanding and treatment. Topics covered include: The history and development of the TAT The importance of context in storytelling How stories are transformed over time What narratives may reveal about personality organization How narratives may alter according to age, gender, or as a result of defense mechanisms The use of the TAT for research studies