Abstract
In this chapter we propose to discuss and illustrate the construction-destruction semiosis of hierarchical semiotic systems, emphasizing preserved traces of signs destroyed in the emergence of the transition toward the decision to adopt and the creation of a new sign. We will study the trajectory of a heterosexual couple, concentrating on their symbolic resignifications once facing (1) rupture with the desire to get pregnant after several unsuccessful attempts and (2) the perspective that adoption had become the only possibility for them to become parents. The analysis used the quadratic unit proposed by Valsiner (An invitation to cultural psychology, Sage, 2014; in this volume). Through the rupture experienced by the couple in the attempt to get pregnant, we explored the tension and ambivalence in the coordination of the two infinities (future < > past, inner < > outer) that promoted the change in point of view and the subsequent decision: to consider adoption as a way of becoming parents. The rupture and its subsequent confrontation took place during data construction, in real time, which, on the one hand, made it possible to widen the scope of findings in this experience but, on the other hand, limited the investigation about the transition experienced given the lack of personal distancing from it.
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- 1.
On hierarchical sign systems, see Valsiner, 2007, 2014.
- 2.
“The notion of affective fields suggests that living situations which were attributed a specific feeling – for example, ‘adoption is a problem’ or ‘adoption is good’ – will regulate (semiotic regulation) future encounters between this person and the social environment” (Valério, 2013).
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Valério, T., Ferreira-Novaes, N.M. (2018). Preserved Traces of Destroyed Sign Hierarchy: From Genetic Parenting to Adoptive Parenting. In: Lyra, M., Pinheiro, M. (eds) Cultural Psychology as Basic Science. SpringerBriefs in Psychology(). Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-01467-4_9
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