Managing an unpopular opinion in a controversial political issue discussion

Controversial political issues are, by definition and design, places where students engage with others holding differing opinions. Yet classrooms often reflect U.S. society, which is increasingly segregated by political ideology. This article examines the case of Jake, a young African American man who participated in a high school discussion of same-sex marriage as the only person in the room who believed it should not be allowed. Using discursive psychology, the author analyzes how Jake navigated the challenges he faced in class and in a follow-up interview. Jake was remarkably adept at maintaining a consistent opposition while presenting an identity as open-minded. He externalized his views and expressed opinions in ways that were acceptable to his listeners. Jake's case helps us better understand students' talk, their reluctance to talk, and the linguistic resources they draw on when things get tough.