There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called “student development theory.” These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you’re not expected to be a “theory expert” as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can be helpful from a basic understanding of some of these theories. Remember these are generalizations, and not all students will follow the exact same path.
Marcia Baxter Magolda’s concept of self-authorship focuses on the development of an individual’s ability to understand and manage their own beliefs, values, and identity. It is a key part of her theory on how people evolve through their educational and personal experiences. Your role as a student staff member is to encourage your residents to develop their own independent beliefs, values, and sense of self such that they able to “author their own lives.”
Summary of Self-Authorship
Definition: Self-authorship is the process by which individuals develop the capacity to construct and revise their own identity, beliefs, and values. This involves becoming the authors of their own life stories rather than merely following external expectations or norms.
Three Phases of Self-Authorship:
- External Formulation: Initially, individuals rely heavily on external authorities or societal norms to define their beliefs and values.
- Crossroads: At this stage, individuals begin to question external sources and experience internal conflicts about their identity and values.
- Self-Authorship: Finally, individuals establish their own perspectives and values, making decisions based on their self-understanding and personal beliefs.
Key Components:
- Internal Foundation: Developing a strong internal sense of self and understanding one’s own beliefs and values.
- Personal Agency: Taking responsibility for one’s own decisions and actions.
- Interpersonal Relationships: Engaging in relationships that are based on mutual understanding and respect, rather than merely conforming to others’ expectations.
Application for RAs and Student Staff
- Supporting Resident Development: Student staff can help residents progress towards self-authorship by encouraging them to explore their own values, beliefs, and goals. This might involve facilitating discussions, providing resources, or offering guidance that helps residents reflect on their own experiences.
- Promoting Autonomy: Student staff can create environments that support residents’ independence and self-discovery. This includes allowing residents to make their own decisions, face challenges, and learn from their experiences.
- Facilitating Reflection: Student staff can encourage residents to engage in reflective practices, such as journaling or discussions, that help them process their experiences and develop a clearer sense of self.
- Modeling Self-Authorship: Student staff members themselves can model self-authorship by demonstrating how they navigate their own values and decisions. This can provide a practical example for residents to follow.
- Providing Support: Offering a balance of challenge and support, as outlined in other developmental theories, aligns with fostering self-authorship. RAs can provide guidance and resources while respecting residents’ autonomy and encouraging their personal growth.
College can be a transformative time for many people. It’s often said it’s a place where you “learn who you are” and “who you want to be.” By applying the concept of self-authorship, you can help residents navigate their personal development, making their college experience more enriching and aligned with their own values and goals.
