Chefers identitet och identitetsskapande: en studie av chefer i offentlig verksamhet

The aim of this study was to gain a comprehension of managers experience of their identity and their construction of identity in the work sphere. 14 semi-structured interviews were performed with managers in the public sector. The interviews were analyzed from a hermeneutic approach. The results showed that the managers´ experience of their identity and their construction of identity were full of nuances and was characterized by a being and a becoming. The managers had several social identities at their disposal, which were brought to the fore due to the situation. The work as manager meant a great deal to the managers and was characterized by urge and commitment. The management was described as a continuous learning, an increased self-awareness and an evaluation of who they were and how they pursued their management. The managers preferred to act as leader or coach, a manager who was available for his co-workers and who strived to develop oneself and the co-workers. Expectations from the surrounding world also had an influence on the management and affected the managers´ experience of their identity and their construction of identity