This paper examines the construction of narrative-based identity, hope, and resistance in The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, and discusses narrative identity theory and psychological development. Broken amid the holocaust traumatic experience, Anne’s diary serves as a strong self-expression vehicle, a means of emotional control, and a system of meaning. The paper examines how Anne creates two identities through her changing narrative voice and interactions, most notably with her imaginary Dear Kitty, and how this empowers her to survive her fear, her imprisonment, and even her adolescence. Her diary is a historical trauma document, and it offers her agency, dignity, and moral resilience against dehumanisation. Using a qualitative analysis, the study has underscored the importance of diary writing as a revolutionary method in psychology that builds a coherent self and offers hope even in the worst situations. The current paper is a contribution to the larger debate about narrative identity, trauma and healing that can be provided by autobiographical composition.
K et al. (2026) studied this question.