Fear and Loathing in the Field: Emotional Dissonance and Identity Work in Ethnographic Research

Down, S., Garrety, K., and Badham, R. (2006) ‘Fear and loathing in the field: Emotional dissonance and identity work in ethnographic research’ M@n@gement 9(3): 87-107.

36 Pages Posted: 12 Aug 2014

See all articles by Simon Down

Simon Down

Anglia Ruskin University

Karin Garrety

University of Wollongong

Richard Badham

Macquarie University; Macquarie University, Macquarie Business School

Date Written: August 11, 2014

Abstract

This paper seeks to open up for discussion the emotional world of researchers in a manner that encourages and supports reflective practice. Drawing on the work of Clifford Geertz (1968) we focus on the irony inherent to research – elaborated via the concept of covertness – whereby ethnographic researchers construct mutual fictions in their relationships with respondents, which obscure the authenticity and sincerity of the emotional exchange between researcher and researched. Specifically we discuss examples of interpersonal dynamics which generate uncomfortable emotions and identity work on the part of researchers. Ultimately, we advance understanding of how emotions and identity work influence the collection and interpretation of data. The methodological implications for conducting ethnographic research are discussed.

Suggested Citation

Down, Simon and Garrety, Karin and Badham, Richard, Fear and Loathing in the Field: Emotional Dissonance and Identity Work in Ethnographic Research (August 11, 2014). Down, S., Garrety, K., and Badham, R. (2006) ‘Fear and loathing in the field: Emotional dissonance and identity work in ethnographic research’ M@n@gement 9(3): 87-107., Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2478799

Simon Down (Contact Author)

Anglia Ruskin University ( email )

East Road
Cambridge CB1 1PT
United Kingdom

Karin Garrety

University of Wollongong ( email )

Northfields Avenue
Wollongong, New South Wales 2522
Australia

Richard Badham

Macquarie University ( email )

North Ryde
Sydney, New South Wales 2109
Australia

Macquarie University, Macquarie Business School ( email )

New South Wales 2109
Australia

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