Qualitative Data Analysis Using a Dialogical Approach

In this book Paul Sullivan introduces readers to the theory and method of dialogical discourse analysis (DADA). He unpacks its conceptual basis, relates it to relevant methodological and philosophical literature, and demonstrates its practical application.

DADA derives from a strand of social psychology rooted in the philosophy of Mikhail Bakhtin. It seeks to foreground the role of atmosphere, subjectivity, and authorial reflection within texts. It also enables the researcher to attend to the conflicts, judgments, and interpretive activities that take place in language use. Practically speaking, DADA allows analysis on direct and indirect discourse, speech genres, hesitations, irony, and a variety of other conditions that in everyday life shape our understanding of dialogue in context.

As well as unpacking the theory behind this innovative method, the author provides sound practical advice and this is a book that never loses touch with the everyday analytic needs of the reader.

Topics include:

• The theoretical foundations of the approach
• Data preparation
• Applications of DADA
• The future of discourse analysis

Theoretical discussion is consistently accompanied by research examples and suggestions as to how DADA could be used in the reader's own research. This important and timely book is ideal for any reader who wants to do research with discourse and dialogue and who is keen to attend to the full nuances and complexities of discourse.