Critical Discourse Analysis vs. Framing Theory vs. Narrative Analysis: Key Differences Explained

Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), Framing Theory, and Narrative Analysis are all methods of analyzing communication. While they share similarities, there are also significant differences between them.

Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is a method of analyzing text and talk to understand how power relations are constructed and maintained through language. It focuses on the ways in which language is used to reinforce dominant ideologies and social structures. CDA seeks to uncover hidden meanings and assumptions in language use and expose the ways in which language can be used to perpetuate inequality.

Framing Theory is a method of analyzing how messages are presented to shape how they are received by audiences. It focuses on how media and other communicators frame issues, events, and ideas to influence public opinion. Framing Theory seeks to uncover how messages are constructed and presented and explore the consequences of those constructions.

Narrative Analysis is a method of analyzing stories and other forms of narrative to understand how they shape our understanding of the world. It focuses on how stories are constructed and told and on the impact they have on our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Narrative Analysis seeks to uncover the underlying structures and patterns of stories and explore their cultural and social significance.

In summary, while all three methods are concerned with analyzing communication, they differ in their focus and approach. CDA is concerned with power relations and ideology, Framing Theory with the presentation and reception of messages, and Narrative Analysis with the construction and interpretation of stories.