Older veterans: The materiality of reminiscence, making unknown histories knowable and forging social connections

Long, Emma ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3884-5135, Edwards, Annabelle, McWade, Brigit, Clark, Samuel and Brewster, Liz (2021) Older veterans: The materiality of reminiscence, making unknown histories knowable and forging social connections. Memory Studies, 14 (4). pp. 892-908. ISSN 1750-6980

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Abstract

Materials have long been used by individuals reflecting on personal histories, and researchers have evidenced the associated therapeutic value particularly among older populations. In this article, we consider older veterans’ reminiscence through attending interviews and workshops, focussing on the performative potential of engaging with materials collected throughout their service lives. By considering their use of in situ and post-hoc materials, two themes are explored: the use of materials to build a sense of belonging; and making unknown histories knowable. We consider how their sharing of materials (re)produces their past and present military identities, simultaneously drawing boundaries of inclusion and exclusion around what it means to be military or non-military (civilian). Through sharing materials, veterans facilitated discussions with both military and non-military persons, enabling feelings of connection and belonging.

Item Type: Article
Faculty \ School: Faculty of Social Sciences > School of Social Work
Related URLs:
Depositing User: LivePure Connector
Date Deposited: 18 Nov 2021 01:58
Last Modified: 23 Oct 2022 03:20
URI: https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/82191
DOI: 10.1177/17506980211024317

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