DisCASS is an acronym for "Discourse and Conversation Analysis in Social Sciences," which refers to a methodological approach employed in the field of social sciences, particularly in the areas of sociology, anthropology, and linguistics. It encompasses the analysis and study of social interactions, conversations, and discourse patterns to gain insights into how social meanings and structures are constructed and negotiated in various contexts.
At its core, DisCASS focuses on the detailed examination of language use, communication strategies, and the social processes that occur during interactions between individuals or within groups. This approach places emphasis on understanding the social dynamics and power relations that shape and are shaped by language choices and communication practices.
DisCASS involves systematically examining the different levels of discourse, such as turn-taking patterns, sequences of conversational actions, and the use of specific linguistic features and devices (e.g., politeness markers, narrative structures), to establish how meanings are negotiated, identities are constructed, and social phenomena are produced and reproduced.
Researchers using DisCASS draw on various theoretical frameworks, such as ethnomethodology, conversation analysis, and critical discourse analysis, to investigate specific research questions related to social phenomena, cultural practices, and power dynamics. The aim is to uncover hidden social norms, ideologies, and interactions that contribute to the construction of social reality.
Overall, DisCASS offers a systematic and rigorous approach to understanding the intricate interplay between language use, social interaction, and the wider social context, enabling researchers to gain deeper insights into the ways in which social life is shaped and managed through discourse.
