Bacchi’s “What’s the Problem Represented to Be?” approach is a critical policy analysis framework that focuses on deconstructing policy discourses to uncover underlying assumptions, power relations, and the way problems are framed. This approach can be particularly useful in challenging dominant power relations and assumptions in policy-making by shedding light on hidden biases and offering alternative perspectives. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply this approach to a social issue of your choice and propose alternative policy solutions:

1. Select a Social Issue: Start by choosing a specific social issue that you want to analyze. It could be anything from healthcare access to environmental conservation or education reform. Make sure the issue has a dominant policy discourse that you can deconstruct.
2. Identify the Dominant Policy Discourse: Research the existing policy discourse surrounding your chosen issue. Look for official documents, government reports, media coverage, and academic research that frame the problem. Pay attention to the language used, key stakeholders, and the assumptions embedded in the discourse.
3. Deconstruct the Discourse:
   • Define the Problem Representation: Begin by articulating how the issue is represented in the dominant discourse. What is the problem statement, and what are the proposed solutions?
   • Identify Assumptions: Analyze the assumptions that underlie the problem representation. These can include cultural, social, economic, or political assumptions that shape the discourse.
   • Uncover Power Relations: Identify the power dynamics within the discourse. Who has the authority to define the problem and propose solutions? Are certain voices marginalized or excluded from the discourse?
4. Propose Alternative Problem Representations:
   • Challenge Assumptions: Challenge the assumptions you identified in the dominant discourse. For example, if the dominant discourse assumes that the main cause of the issue is individual behavior, question whether structural factors are being overlooked.
   • Highlight Marginalized Voices: Bring in perspectives from marginalized or underrepresented groups that are often excluded from the policy discourse. Consider how their experiences and needs might differ.
   • Reframe the Problem: Present alternative problem representations that take into account the challenges and perspectives you’ve uncovered. Emphasize a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.
5. Propose Alternative Policy Solutions:
   • Based on your alternative problem representations, propose policy solutions that address the issue from different angles. These solutions should challenge the status quo and the limitations of the dominant discourse.
   • Consider both short-term and long-term policy measures, as well as potential trade-offs and unintended consequences.
6. Advocate for Change:
   • Share your critical analysis and alternative policy solutions with relevant stakeholders, policymakers, and the public through various channels, such as academic papers, op-eds, social media, or advocacy groups.
   • Engage in dialogue and advocacy to promote your alternative solutions and challenge the dominant policy discourse.
7. Evaluate the Impact: Continuously monitor the impact of your efforts. Have you been able to influence the policy debate? Are decision-makers considering alternative solutions? Document any progress or challenges encountered.

By using Bacchi’s approach, you can help to challenge dominant power relations and assumptions in policy-making by revealing hidden biases, giving voice to marginalized perspectives, and offering more comprehensive and equitable policy alternatives. This critical analysis contributes to a more informed and inclusive policy-making process.