The language of poverty: an exploration of the narratives of the poor

Misturelli, F. and Heffernan, C. (2011) The language of poverty: an exploration of the narratives of the poor. Sustainable Development, 19 (3). pp. 206-222. ISSN 1099-1719 doi: 10.1002/sd.437

Abstract/Summary

Within the development discourse, the narratives of the poor are a well utilized rhetorical tool to describe poverty and its causes. However, narratives can also reveal the beliefs and ‘world-view’ of the narrators. To explore this influence, the authors applied a discursive approach, to deconstruct the narratives of 101 slum dwellers in Kibera, Nairobi. The results revealed that poverty was largely attributed to external constraints, beyond an individual's control. Despite wanting a better life, participants held low expectations for the future. Hopes and dreams were placed on their children. While risk and uncertainty was a constant theme, large differences were found between genders as to the aspirations for the future. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.