Greetings, Maha--Alignment is an important aspect of any type of conversational interaction. However, only in the last few years has "alignment" been given its due in conversation analytic research. As you point out, much of the research on physician-patient interaction does not specifically focus on 'alignment'. Additionally, most research addresses only the dyad (e.g., provider-patient) and rarely the triad (e.g., provider-patient-caregiver). The work done by interpreters in medical settings is one exception to this rule. Galina Bolden has done some conversation analytic work with interpreters in medical settings. Cecilia Wadensjo has a wonderful book called "Interpreting as Interaction" that uses the work of Erving Goffman to examine the discourse of triadic interaction. Tanya Stivers, Jack Sidnell, Emanuel Schegloff, and Chuck Goodwin have all written on the notion of 'alignment'. Stivers has specifically examined physician-child-parent (e.g., caregiver) interaction where alignment is specifically addressed. The research is "out there". Good luck with your research.

Hi Christopher,

Thank you so much for your comment, I am so grateful to you.

Hi Maha,

triadic interactions are a very interesting area of investigation, and relatively rarely explored. You might be interested in Alison Pilnick's work on pharmacy consultations with children and their parents. There are clear differences between these interactions and more routine doctor-patient-carer consultations. I briefly commented on these differences in my paper about asymmetry in SSM (2009).

I hope the work goes well.

Hi Steven,

Many many thanks for your help. Of course, I will look at your paper. Thanks again.