Narrative
In the INR Model framework, “narrative” refers to the implicit story of meaning through which a person interprets the world. It determines what feels logical, safe, or necessary based on past experiences.
Deepening
Narrative constitutes the second layer within the INR Model. It arises from repeated experiences in which Inner Needs were either met or not met. These experiences are not consciously stored as beliefs, but as implicit frames of reference.
Narrative does not directly control behavior, but influences the interpretation of situations. When a situation is perceived as threatening to autonomy, competence, or relatedness, the system activates protective meanings that guide Reaction.
Narrative is not a conscious thought or explicit belief. It functions at an implicit level and feels self-evident. Therefore, it is often persistent and difficult to change through mere explanation or insight.
Relationship to INR
Narrative connects inner needs with reaction. It forms the translation layer between need and behavior. Without narrative, behavior is incomprehensible because behavior always stems from the meaning attributed to a situation.