Impacts of Researching Emotionally Challenging Topics

• In Event: Contemporary Issues in Gendered Violence: Radicalization, Media Framing, and Researcher Wellbeing

Abstract

The UKRI funded Researcher Wellbeing Project (RWP) aimed to understand: (i) the impacts of researching emotionally challenging topics (e.g. gender-based violence, war crimes) on academic staff; and (ii) what support researchers wanted to help them cope better. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with academic staff. Participants also completed the Secondary Trauma Stress Scale and a support preferences questionnaire. Researchers reported a spectrum of symptoms, including trouble concentrating, negative emotions, and distressing thoughts. Factors increasing vulnerability to distress included limited control over research topics, inadequate knowledge about coping mechanisms, shared experiences with traumatised groups, and personal life challenges. The study underlines the need for institutional support systems, including training in coping strategies and guidelines for conducting sensitive research. It highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to address the wellbeing of researchers, moving beyond individual resilience to foster a supportive research environment. Specific implications include effective mental health risk assessment, training programs, peer support, and regular wellbeing check-ins with supervisors. The paper ends with a strategic vision of what Bronze, Silver and Gold Standard institutional responses could look like; and an outline of the current work of the RWP aimed at developing and implementing this vision in seven UK universities.

Authors

• Tina Nicola Skinner, University of Bath

• Kristine Brance, University of Limerick

• Heather Girling, University of Bath

• Sarah Halligan, University of Bath

• Emily Tsang, University of Bath