Rhetorical discursive device providing details/examples in sequence. Strengthens case by presenting multiple instances of extreme behavior.

State University of New York at Binghamton

1. Complaining as a Social Action
2. Rhetoric of 'Burden'
3. Three-Part List
4. Extreme Case Formulations (ECFs)

Rhetorical Strategy Complex

Lester, J. N. (Ed.). (2021). Discursive Psychology and Disability. Palgrave Studies in Discursive Psychology. Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

Reference For: Discursive Psychology and Disability

Core action used by parents when describing child's impact. Demonstrates that a normative standard has been transgressed by the child's behavior.

Complaining as Social Action

ECFs involve descriptions using extreme expressions like "nightmare," "horrific," "everything," or "total standstill" to strengthen claims and defend complaints. Speakers use ECFs to present behaviors as problematic due to their frequency or severity. These formulations legitimize complaints against potential skepticism and imply transgression of normal standards. ECFs are strategic rhetorical devices for accomplishing credibility and warranting concern.

Extreme Case Formulations

Parents' discursive strategy to report extreme impact of child's behaviors on family life. Frames symptoms as "exceptionally burdensome" to build case for diagnosis.

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