Using documentary analysis to reveal narratives of mothering

Abstract

This paper will outline a piece of research that did not aim primarily to use a narrative approach or to rely upon narrative inquiry. The initial focus of the research was concerned with using documentary analysis in order to investigate whether or not an integrated model of individual and group decision making processes (Whyte, 1989; 1991) could be used to explain and predict decision making in cases of child protection in the UK. The research involved using a ‘background concept’ (Layder, 1993) in order to analyse child death inquiry documents and documents relating to ongoing cases in child protection within a local UK health authority. However what emerged from the research appeared to be the way in which documentary analysis could reveal instances where community and cultural narratives with regard to mothering had impact upon the decision making processes of individuals and groups