This book is aimed at social science researchers (e.g., psychology, criminology, sociology) from all levels of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and post-doctoral) looking to develop a research project which focuses on a sensitive topic area (e.g., crime, sexual health, sexual habits, drug taking, mental health, eating disorders, domestic violence), and/or are recruiting a sensitive/clinical population (e.g., children, offenders, people who are drug dependent). In the book there are discussions about how to manage emerging sensitive topics (e.g., the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, security concerns about the use of artificial intelligence).
This book supports researchers in developing appropriate methodologies as well as thinking critically about ethics when working on sensitive topics. Its authors also offers advice on maintaining professionalism and being part of a successful research, along with how to share the results of sensitive projects appropriately. There is also a chapter dedicated to looking after yourself as a researcher. As such, this book is centred around encouraging the researcher to take a non-judgemental approach, reinforcing the importance of self-care whilst researching sensitive populations and utilising evidence-based, ethical practice.
Preface.- Chapter 1 Am I Researching a Sensitive Topic?.- Chapter 2 - Planning your Research Project.- Chapter 3- Ethical Research for Sensitive Topics.- Chapter 4- Dealing with ethical challenges in Sensitive Research.- Chapter 5- How to maintain professionalism when researching sensitive topics.- Chapter 6- Being part of a successful research collaboration.- Chapter 7- Looking after you.- Chapter 8 Sharing your sensitive findings.- Resources Section.
Dr Amy Burrell is a Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham. She has 20+ years experience in researching crime and policing topics. She has run interviews and focus groups with practitioners (e.g., police) and vulnerable groups (e.g., children, victims), as well as work with large datasets (e.g., recorded crime).
Dr Daniel Waldeck is an Assistant Professor in Psychology at Coventry University. He has taught research methods and analysis at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His research includes sensitive topics such as ostracism, student wellbeing and distress, and dark personality traits linked to aggression
Francesca Walsh is an Assistant Professor in Cognitive Psychology at Coventry University. She is also Dissertation and Ethics Lead for the Psychology suite of courses. She specialises in research design, ethics, and student development, driving academic quality, research excellence, and innovative teaching practices within higher education.
