Linguistic Strategies Used by Thai Caregivers to Encourage Food Consumption among Elderly Japanese

Abstract

This research article  aims to analyze the persuasive speaking strategies used by Thai caregivers towards elderly Japanese patients to encourage them to eat. The study utilizes the persuasion framework of Johnstone (1989) and Aristotle (2007) to classify and explain persuasive strategies, which are divided into three main components: logic and reasoning (Logos), emotional appeal (Pathos), and building speaker credibility (Ethos). Additionally, the framework of politeness by Brown and Levinson (1987) is used to analyze the linguistic strategies chosen by caregivers, considering four types of politeness. This is a qualitative research study using in-depth interviews with six Thai caregivers.

The research findings indicate that the most frequently used persuasive strategy is emotional appeal (58.70%), followed by logic and reasoning (28.26%), while building speaker credibility is the least common (13.04%). Each type of persuasive speaking strategy is often accompanied by different forms of politeness strategies. Logical and reasoning tactics are often used in conjunction with three types of politeness: direct intimidation, positive politeness, and negative politeness. However, direct intimidation is not commonly used when the primary focus is on building the speaker's credibility.