Photo-elicitation for inclusive research on sensitive topics

Abstract

Research into sensitive issues such as sexuality requires inclusive research methods if the experiences of women from diverse sociocultural backgrounds are to be included. Photo-elicitation is one of the visual methods adopted by the social and health sciences, particularly in research involving phenomena related to children and young adults, suitable for inclusive approaches as it offers opportunities for the inclusion of sensitive topics and/or vulnerable populations. This chapter uses a research study to explore sexuality issues among Malay women as a case study to show how photo-elicitation can be adopted. The aim of the research was to understand the meanings heterosexual Malay women attach to sexuality and their experiences of living with sexual dysfunction. In this case study, photo-elicitation facilitated data collection with photographs provided by the researchers. Photo-elicitation enabled participant experiences to be visualized and to be understood in ways that showed how the women perceived their problems and their impact. Communication on a topic that is strictly socially taboo was enhanced through the use of the photo-elicitation method. The chapter explains why participants preferred photo-elicitation over other visual methods and concludes with a summary of the strengths of photo elicitation as a method, implications for practice, and recommendations for further use.