The Sense of Coherence in the Life Course

Abstract

The development of the sense of coherence (SOC) is understood as a lifelong learning process. Among the important questions about this process are as follows: What are the crucial factors that contribute to build, enhance, and strengthen the SOC during the life course? Is the role of the SOC in coping stable during the life course, or does it have different functions at different life stages? For example, does the SOC open one to new GRRs at the beginning and facilitate access to GRRs later in life? Can salutogenic interventions strengthen the SOC during various phases in the lifespan? The chapters in this part of the Handbook tackle these questions with varying emphasis at different periods of life.