Abstract
This study examines the telephone negotiations between FBI agent, John Cox, and David Koresh, leader of the Branch Davidians, during the Waco Standoff of 1993. Using grounded practical theory (GPT), I describe the management of attempts at levity as a discourse practice, arguing that it accomplishes relational identity-work in this serious situation by navigating contradicting goals of approval and disapproval. Cox and Koresh’s navigation does relational identity-work by suspending a relational paradox, trusting in the joke, and re-negotiating the limits of levity. These processes suggest challenges to ideals for relationship talk, especially in serious situations, and expand the boundaries of GPT.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
