Using documentary analysis to reveal narratives of mothering

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.