Discursive Construction Analysis: An integrated approach to analysing varieties of discourse

Discursive constructionism has gained popularity in recent years as an approach to researching complex and nuanced organizational concepts that are predominantly produced and sustained through communication. The complexity of communication, however, presents methodological challenges. Whilst a wide range of methods fall under the category of ‘discourse analysis’, there is a tendency for them to address a specific level of discourse – i.e., micro/meso-level small ‘d’ discourse or grand/mega-level big ‘D’ Discourse – resulting in a fragmented field and a dearth of methods capable of addressing the interrelation of the various levels of discourse. In this paper, Discursive Construction Analysis (DCA) is presented as a methodology that addresses some of the limitations resulting from the fragmentation of discourse analysis. Through the application of Foucault’s concept of the ‘tactical polyvalence of discourses’ this methodology enables the researcher to take into account the actors’ ‘tactical’ suppression and promotion of grand/mega-level discourses, whilst interrelating a consideration of discursively enacted power dynamics at micro/meso-levels. Furthermore, this approach has been designed to allow for an analysis of the spoken and unspoken elements of language use. The DCA methodology is illustrated through a step-by-step worked example which demonstrates aspects of the discursive construction of ‘collective leadership’ within an independent UK law firm as a stimulus for researchers conducting similar projects.