In an increasingly interconnected world, a dialogical self isnot only possible but even necessary. People are closer togetherthan ever, yet they are confronted with apparent and sometimes eveninsurmountable differences.While there is a need of increased dialogue between individuals,groups, and cultures, it is equally important to develop ofdialogical potentials within the self of the individual person.Elaborating on these concerns, the authors present and discuss aDialogical Self Theory based on the assumption that the selffunctions as a society of mind. The self is not simplyparticipating in a "surrounding" society, but functionsitself as a mini-society, which is, at the same time, part of thesociety at large. The authors:* Present the theory in detail* Explore the developmental origins of the dialogical self* Elaborate on the identity development of adolescents growing upin multicultural societies* Discuss a striking example of a social movement in India, whereindividual and collective voices merge in a nationwideprotest.This is the 137th volume in this series. Its missionis to provide scientific and scholarly presentations on cuttingedge issues and concepts in child and adolescent development. Eachvolume focuses on a specific new direction or research topic and isedited by experts on that topic.

1. Dialogical Self Theory and the Increasing Multiplicity ofI-Positions in a Globalizing Society: An Introduction 1Hubert J. M. HermansIn this introductory text, the author sets forth the origin andmain tenets of Dialogical Self Theory in the context of aglobalizing society, with special attention to the experience ofuncertainty.2. Self and Other Dialogue in Infancy: Normal Versus CompromisedDevelopmental Pathways 23Sarah Ahlander Stone, Ilse DeKoeyer-Laros, Alan FogelDialogical Self Theory, co-regulation, and foundational movementanalysis are used to present a description of the development ofthe dialogical self during the first five months of life.3. Multicultural Adolescents Between Tradition andPostmodernity: Dialogical Self Theory and the Paradox ofLocalization and Globalization 39Toon van MeijlThe author explores the identity development of adolescentsgrowing up in multicultural societies and analyzes their dilemmasfrom the perspective of the self as a "society ofmind."4. Mental Sociality and Collective Identity: A DialogicalAnalysis of the Indian Sense of Self 53Nandita ChaudharyThe focus of this chapter is on a social protest movement inIndia that illustrates how personal and collective meanings emergeas voices in the self as a society of mind, with special emphasison intra- and intergroup dynamics.5. Bridging Theory: Where Cultures Meet in Self and Science69Lene Arnett JensenIn her reflections, the author discusses and evaluates thisspecial issue as a whole.INDEX 73