Table 1
Thematic coding frame based on Abdelal et al., 2006.
| COLLECTIVE IDENTITY | DEFINITION (ABDELAL ET AL., 2006) |
|---|---|
| Constitutive norms | • “Who we are” • Boundaries and distinctive practices of the group • Formal and informal rules |
| Social purpose | • “What we do” and “What we want” • The purposive meaning derived from a particular identity |
| Relational comparisons | • The identification of the group contrasting it to what it is not • Action is relational to the existence of ‘Others’ |
| Cognitive models | • The worldviews and contemporary understandings of the group • Group membership defined by explanations of how the world looks |
Table 2
Example of coding table for “constitutive norms”. Each relevant quote was added to the table under the appropriate theoretical theme (constitutive norms, social purposes, relational comparisons, cognitive models) allowing for the authors to comment on its identity-constructing content. Afterwards, a suitable sub-theme was either formulated or reused.
| Constitutive norms | “To fit in the group, you have to be solution-oriented, adaptable, and a team player. It is physically challenging, and you must engage in regular exercise to be a good rifleman, says Christoffer.” (I–3) COMMENT: Characteristics for the SHG soldier to fit the role. The importance of physical fitness for the task, at least for the more “soldierly” jobs in the SHG. ➔ (Soldierly mental and physical strength) |