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Abstract

This dissertation looks at the recent proliferation of the self-help industry, specifically the consumption of self-help books. With the methodological approach of semi-structured interviews, this dissertation looks to explain the reason why individuals feel the need to self-improve. Considering this, evidence will show that happiness is the key characteristic that individuals strive to achieve, yet it manifests itself in many personal forms and thus a plethora of topics surrounding self-help are created. Furthermore, it will evaluate why self-help literature is commonly chosen by individuals as a form of guidance for self-improvement. It will also illustrate the effects of consuming self-help books; evaluating whether the end goal of personal growth is achieved. Moreover, this research will explain the paradox of self-help and how society acknowledges the unattainable goal of perfection, nevertheless continuing to make it a priority; subsequently creating the illusion that total life satisfaction is an achievable norm. Additionally, this research will argue that the therapeutic narrative has had a major influence on peoples view of self-hood. In turn, this discourse has created a huge industry that encourages the perpetuation of self-improvement.

Course: Sociology - BSc (Hons) - C0315

Date Deposited: 2022-05-16

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13903.html