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Discourse analytic exploration of the Who Cares, 2009 focus group discussions

This project adopted a discourse analysis approach to explore the findings of qualitative research (focus group discussions) conducted as part of the 2009 "Who Cares about the Environment" survey. Rather than simply summarise the main points arising from a focus group discussion, discourse analysis seeks to expose the social and cultural meanings behind participant and household behaviours (in this case, energy efficiency behaviour), identify the origins of these meanings in commercial advertising and popular culture, and identify the body of meaning that might surround resistance to behavioural change. Central to this approach is the idea that certain meanings legitimise particular behaviours and establish them as social norms, while making alternative behaviours invisible or socially deviant.

Completed in 2010

Funded by: NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water

The University of New England respects and acknowledges that its people, courses and facilities are built on land, and surrounded by a sense of belonging, both ancient and contemporary, of the world's oldest living culture. In doing so, UNE values and respects Indigenous knowledge systems as a vital part of the knowledge capital of Australia. We recognise the strength, resilience and capacity of the Aboriginal community and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and future.