1. a perception of having clarity or intelligibility, that is, of being capable of thinking and expressing oneself in a clear and consistent manner. 2. the ability to present a narrative of oneself in a way that is understandable and easy to follow. Sense of coherence is considered a protective factor against the deleterious effects of stress on physical and mental health. [proposed by U.S.-born Israeli medical sociologist Aaron Antonovsky (1923–1994)]