Force dynamics of (im)politeness: evidence from (im)politeness of Chinese parent–child discourse in family mealtimes

Abstract In the second-wave, research on (im)politeness has experienced a discursive turn that witnesses an increasing interest in the naturally occurring and situated discourse. Although numerous researchers have evaluated interactional orientation of (im)politeness via a wide range of pragmatic phenomena, few studies have probed the dynamic characteristics and pragmatic functions of (im)politeness in discourse generated in children’s daily communication, such as parent–child discourse in family mealtimes. Based on the discourse between Chinese preschool children and their caregivers, the current study addresses the internal characteristics of (im)politeness by exploring how force dynamics can be formed and mediated in family mealtimes through the lens of dinner table rituals. Furthermore, the pragmatic functions of (im)politeness were revealed from the ritual perspective, namely, enhancing language socialization, expressing emotions, indicating meaningful educational directions, and guiding children’s moral practice. Utilizing force dynamics of (im)politeness, the current study aims to provide new insights for the understanding of children’s (im)politeness and emphasize the critical place that ritual occupies in (im)politeness research.