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Visually Embodying Psychosis: The Ethics of Performing Difficult Experiences

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Ethics and Visual Research Methods

Abstract

Artistic modes of research representation may enhance the likelihood of impact (negative or positive) on audiences and, consequently, on artists and researchers. Dance provides a visual vocabulary wherein subjective experiences of mental health are shared and research results disseminated. We focus on a key ethical issue with using dance performers as co-researchers—the concept of “dangerous emotional terrain” which describes potentially negative impacts of the embodiment of research depicting difficult lived experiences. Two central strategies to address negative emotional impact are identified: reflexive practice and creation of a safe and supportive environment via collaborative partnerships with research team and performers.

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Boydell, K.M., Solimine, C., Jackson, S. (2016). Visually Embodying Psychosis: The Ethics of Performing Difficult Experiences. In: Warr, D., Guillemin, M., Cox, S., Waycott, J. (eds) Ethics and Visual Research Methods. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-54305-9_15

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