ABSTRACT
This chapter employs Conversation Analysis (CA) to investigate the evolution of question-response sequences and how question types mark epistemic stance and create affiliation and shared stances between interactants. Focusing on the actions and turns of the speaker who asks questions, which assert or request information, the study examines relations between grammatical form and social action. The findings identify noticeable differences over time. In 1989 participants display orientation to institutionality, while in 2000, they have history and the questions reflect expanded knowledge and relationships between participants. Analyses of question-response sequences elucidate how increasing familiarity plays a role in institutional interview talk.
