A study of coherence as an ableist norm within discussions of broken narratives

Abstract

This paper reports on the ways that coherence emerged as an ableist norm within a systematic review of literature around broken narratives. It was undertaken as part of a larger programme of research investigating the experiences of those with impaired speech. The review identified 34 sources, within which we explored the ways that coherence was discussed. Throughout the review we argue that these texts draw on, and in many cases re-enact, coherence as an ableist norm. Discussions of broken narratives were often built upon the concept of coherence, a concept which has been naturalised and rendered essential to the formation of meaning and personhood. This norm is then employed to fuel a constitutional divide between broken and unbroken narratives. However, some of the texts provide the impetus to question the usefulness of normative ideals of coherence, and to re-evaluate how we can ensure the voice of impaired speakers is heard.