The stepfamily metaphor: further insights and alternatives for understanding the M&A discourse
by Regine Bendl; Helene Mayerhofer; Angelika Schmidt
European J. of International Management (EJIM), Vol. 6, No. 4, 2012

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to analyse the heuristic value of the stepfamily metaphor for describing and formulating non-economic issues of merged and acquired (M&A) companies. Based on organisational discourse methodology we evaluate the stepfamily metaphor introduced by Allred et al. and provide new insights into the nature, antecedents and processes of M&As. Firstly, we review arguments for considering M&A corporations as stepfamilies. Secondly, we introduce Cornelissen's domain-interaction model for evaluating metaphors. Thirdly, we apply the model to appraise the heuristic value of the stepfamily metaphor. Lastly, we discuss how the stepfamily metaphor can transcend the limitations of rational-economic explanations for M&A failures and propose variations on the stepfamily to enhance understanding of M&A.

Online publication date: Sat, 22-Nov-2014

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