Critical Discourse Analysis as Theory, Methodology, and Analyses in Sport Management Studies

in Journal of Sport Management

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Katherine SveinsonTemple University

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Larena HoeberUniversity of Regina

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Caroline HeffernanTemple University

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/jsm.2020-0288
Keywords:
interdisciplinary; qualitative; research design; critical inquiry
First Published Online:
12 Apr 2021
In Print:
Volume 35: Issue 5
Page Range:
465–475
Restricted access

Critical discourse analysis (CDA) is a theory, methodology, and type of analysis used across various fields, including linguistics, sociology, and philosophy. CDA focuses on how language is used; discourses are found within language, and knowledge is created through these discourses. CDA can be beneficial to sport management scholars who seek to question existing power structures. The purpose of this paper was to highlight the value and appropriateness of CDA for Journal of Sport Management readers in an effort to see this approach become more prevalent in the journal. The authors shared their perspectives about the lack of critical qualitative methodologies in Journal of Sport Management, presented theoretical foundations of CDA, showcased its application in sport management studies, and explored four theoretical, methodological, and analytical approaches for future use. The authors also provided suggestions for scholars to adopt discourse-related methodologies to enhance knowledge creation in their field. Finally, the authors acknowledged the limitations of this approach.

Sveinson and Heffernan are with the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. Hoeber is with the Faculty of Kinesiology & Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Canada.

Sveinson (katie.sveinson@temple.edu) is corresponding author.
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