Narratives of incest

Abstract

Incest is described by various models focusing on different factors ranging from pathology to descriptions of the ecosystem in which it takes place. This research presents a theoretical and practical description of father-daughter incest in a family where the father was not removed and includes narratives of all associated systems. Consistent with the postmodern, social constructionist and narrative theories, this study attempts to observe and describe the ensuing process of the incest narrative through the various systems within which it takes place. This process explores people's perceptions of incest, how these are assessed and interpreted, what kind of action they mapped out as a result and the possibility that the abusive narrative is being maintained. Implications for therapy with the

incest family are discussed drawing on narrative principles.

By utilising an emergent design the experiences and narratives of the family and related systems were permitted to emerge through the research process.