Narrative-Based Responses: Discrepant Experiences in Research among the ‡Khomani San

Abstract

In this article data on narrative-based responses by two female ‡Khomani San community members were used to explore the presence of life design issues contained in that data. Data were analyzed thematically for discrepant experiences (Said, 2001). Findings suggest the ‡Khomani San members used small stories to construct relevant aspects of their lives. The small stories converged into a larger identity narrative. Narrative-based approaches are useful with interviews with historically disadvantaged indigenous people.

Keywords:

• ‡Khomani San
• indigenous people
• narrative
• critical community psychology
• discrepant experiences
• life design