Abstract

RAMIREZ-PEREIRA, Mirliana. Qualitative methodology of sensitive topics in public health contexts. Enfermería (Montevideo) [online]. 2017, vol.6, n.spe, pp.25-30. ISSN 1688-8375.  https://doi.org/10.22235/ech.v6iespecial.1447.

Abstract: Subjectivity is always present in qualitative methodologies where emotions, feelings, culture and background of participants and researchers are involved. This is especially relevant in the health area, where sensitivity is present in many of the topics addressed. According to Lee, sensitive topics are those where research invades the private sphere, digs into some deep and personal experiences, addresses deviation or social control, and affects the interests of powerful people and/or the execution of coercion and domination. The following article is divided in two parts: the first one is related to theoretical foundations of the study of sensitive topics in public health, from the perspective of participants and the research team, revealing the importance of safety and physical, psychological, moral and legal security of all the members involved. In the second part, the author reflects upon her experience in investigation of sensitive topics, and, finally, methodological strategies are proposed to address the study of these subjects.

Keywords : qualitative research; public health; researcher-subject relationship.

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