Abstract

Explore the therapeutic aspects of research and its role within researcher wellbeing. Research can act as a cathartic conduit for the generation of new knowledge; exploring topics which may be personal to the researcher themselves, may allow them to rationalise and make sense of their understanding of the world and experiences within it.
Through facilitated discussion we will explore terms such as ‘sensitive topics’, what do these mean to us and what is the empowerment which can be drawn from the research we undertake, and the new knowledge we create. We will discuss how reframing potential trauma unearthed in researching sensitive issues, can support us to recognise the benefits to the participants and may allow both the researcher and the participants to process their experiences and allow others to benefit from the lessons learned. This may be the opportunity which participants are seeking to begin their own journey of healing or to make sense of something which is tinged in sadness. As researchers, keeping the positive impacts that may be felt as a result of our research may allow for comfort in times of darkness and ultimately enhance wellbeing.