How to Code the Meaning of the Child Interview

Ben Grey

How to Code the Meaning of the Child Interview

Ben Grey

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter (peer-reviewed) › peer-review

Abstract

Chapter 7 describes the analytical process of classifying the Meaning of the Child Interview (MotC), drawing upon previous chapters. Essential features of the discourse, identified by the system, are outlined through brief descriptions. Coding the MotC is a skill, and like any useful skill, needs to be taught and practiced. This account, however, should support those who want to understand the principles behind the assessment and use them to inform their clinical practice, while offering a useful summary to those learning the method.
Coding can be seen as a 5-stage process:
1. Reading and Familiarisation
2. Detailed Annotation of Key Features of the Text
3. Global and Functional Theorisation
4. Consideration of Exemplars
5. Pulling Together a Final Classification
This process is circular and interactive, moving between the global picture and detailed evidence until a theory has been developed that best fits all available evidence. Classifications offer a main pattern, as well as the level of parent-child synchrony. The MotC is an assessment of the nature of a relationship rather than a measurement: even collaborative relationships can be problematic in some circumstances. Nonetheless, the classification is useful to gauge concern, and tailor support to the needs of the family.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	The Meaning of the Child Interview: Making Sense of Parent-Child Relationships
Editors	Ben Grey
Publisher	Palgrave Macmillan
Chapter	7
Publication status	Published - 3 Jan 2026

Keywords

meaning of the child interview, attachment theory, attachment, caregiving, parenting, parent-child relationships, adult attachment interview, parent development interview, assessment

Cite this

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title = "How to Code the Meaning of the Child Interview",

abstract = "Chapter 7 describes the analytical process of classifying the Meaning of the Child Interview (MotC), drawing upon previous chapters. Essential features of the discourse, identified by the system, are outlined through brief descriptions. Coding the MotC is a skill, and like any useful skill, needs to be taught and practiced. This account, however, should support those who want to understand the principles behind the assessment and use them to inform their clinical practice, while offering a useful summary to those learning the method. Coding can be seen as a 5-stage process: 1. Reading and Familiarisation 2. Detailed Annotation of Key Features of the Text 3. Global and Functional Theorisation 4. Consideration of Exemplars 5. Pulling Together a Final Classification This process is circular and interactive, moving between the global picture and detailed evidence until a theory has been developed that best fits all available evidence. Classifications offer a main pattern, as well as the level of parent-child synchrony. The MotC is an assessment of the nature of a relationship rather than a measurement: even collaborative relationships can be problematic in some circumstances. Nonetheless, the classification is useful to gauge concern, and tailor support to the needs of the family.",

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AB - Chapter 7 describes the analytical process of classifying the Meaning of the Child Interview (MotC), drawing upon previous chapters. Essential features of the discourse, identified by the system, are outlined through brief descriptions. Coding the MotC is a skill, and like any useful skill, needs to be taught and practiced. This account, however, should support those who want to understand the principles behind the assessment and use them to inform their clinical practice, while offering a useful summary to those learning the method. Coding can be seen as a 5-stage process: 1. Reading and Familiarisation 2. Detailed Annotation of Key Features of the Text 3. Global and Functional Theorisation 4. Consideration of Exemplars 5. Pulling Together a Final Classification This process is circular and interactive, moving between the global picture and detailed evidence until a theory has been developed that best fits all available evidence. Classifications offer a main pattern, as well as the level of parent-child synchrony. The MotC is an assessment of the nature of a relationship rather than a measurement: even collaborative relationships can be problematic in some circumstances. Nonetheless, the classification is useful to gauge concern, and tailor support to the needs of the family.

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A2 - Grey, Ben

PB - Palgrave Macmillan

ER -

How to Code the Meaning of the Child Interview

Abstract

Keywords

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