Using vignette methodology as a tool for exploring cultural identity positions of language brokers

Crafter, S.; de Abreu, G.; Cline, T. and O'Dell, L. (2015). Using vignette methodology as a tool for exploring cultural identity positions of language brokers. Journal of Constructivist Psychology, 28(1) pp. 83–96.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10720537.2014.923354

Abstract

This paper examines how vignette methodology can aid understanding of cultural identity. This is demonstrated through a study of child language brokers where a child is engaged in the cultural contexts of both the host culture and the home culture and must therefore negotiate new cultural identities. Participants were young people aged 15-18 years; some of whom were brokers while others were not. Drawing on notions of adequacy and inadequacy, visibility and invisibility, theoretical ideas around cultural identity theory and dialogical self theory can provide an understanding of how the young people moved through different (often conflicting) identity positions.