Discourse Analysis

The chapter introduces discourse analysis as a method of qualitative social research. Initially, the theoretical-methodological background that contributed to the emergence of discourse analysis is presented. In this context, the work of Michel Foucault plays a central role. Subsequently, discourse analysis is located within the landscape of qualitative methods. The special feature of discourse analysis is that it is always positional, i.e., partial. The core of the chapter is the presentation of central methodological steps for conducting a discourse analysis. Reference is made to the British tradition of critical psychology. Finally, the methodological approach is explained using the example of a discourse-analytical work on the identity formation of East German women 15 years after reunification.