A Narrative Inquiry on the Interpersonal Experiences of Pastor’s Kids

This study uses narrative inquiry to explore the interpersonal experiences of pastors' children. Following Clandinin and Connelly’s procedures, the research was conducted in three stages: “entering the field,” “moving to and constructing field texts,” and “composing research texts.” Three unmarried participants in their twenties, who had been pastors' children since birth, were interviewed three times from February to March 2024. The experiences were analyzed under three themes: Living as a Pastor’s Child, Interpersonal Relationships of Pastors’ Children, and Expanded Life of Pastors’ Children. Relationships with parents, congregants, society, and oneself were examined. Findings revealed two key functions: fostering self-growth through identity reflection and shaping interpersonal characteristics, and developing autonomous faith by overcoming challenges independently. This study offers valuable insights into how the interpersonal experiences of pastors’ children contribute to their personal development and faith formation.