Ethical dilemmas in research

I just finished writing the second empirical chapter for my thesis and it has certainly been the most difficult chapter so far – in terms of emotionally for me to write, not practically. The reason it is the most difficult chapter so far is because it is the most controversial chapter so far. Luckily, it is not only the most controversial chapter so far but the most controversial chapter overall, meaning there will hopefully not be any more difficulties to this extent.

I can’t really go into too much detail at the moment; you’re just gonna have to wait for a publication I’m afraid. Suffice it to say that I am addressing HIV stigma in this second chapter…

Who knew research could be so emotionally difficult? Oh wait, I researched sexual abuse previously. That’s right. I ought to know.

Anyway, I’ve got a holiday coming up so I’m putting thesis writing on hold for a while. Also, my back’s given up on me. Again The first time my back revolted was in mid 2009 in the midst of writing my MRes dissertation. I got my first computer in 1993 (for my 10th birthday). I have been a heavy internet/computer user since 1999. I think my back did well for keeping quiet for 10 years! Anyway, I’ve been typing my second chapter while standing up (I put a box on my desk to raise my laptop) or lying down on the couch. Neither techniques worked that well. The pain is still there, albeit slightly less, but my shoulders are rather unhappy now. Dah I’m calling the GP tomorrow…