Writing about AIDS: Framing policy

Abstract

This paper shows how concepts derived from Goffman's theory of “frame analysis” can be used to interrogate written organization policies. In particular, it allows the exploration of the ways in which the interests of policy-makers may be “hidden” within texts which appear only to offer “rational” solutions to problems posed by putatively irrational behaviour. This involves exposing the complex of different meanings contained within written policy documents and the ways in which such documents can act as a means of control. An analysis of corporate HIV/AIDS policies is used to develop these ideas.