Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

Sharing images, spoiling meanings? Class, gender and ethics in visual research with girls

Fink, J. and Lomax, H. (2016) Sharing images, spoiling meanings? Class, gender and ethics in visual research with girls. Girlhood Studies. 9(3) 1938-8209.

Item Type: Article
Abstract: Our paper considers the ethical challenges engendered by participatory visual research with girls. Drawing on photographs taken by and of girls we consider how to reconcile the challenges generated by disseminating images of girls whilst supporting them to have a voice in research. Our concerns are focused on how to maintain the integrity of girls’ visual voices while protecting them from any harm that may emerge from revealing visual information about them. This issue has become increasingly germane for visual sociology as developments in digital technology and visual culture mean that images can circulate instantaneously and for time immemorial, potentially stripping them of their creators’ intentions and infusing them with new and unintended meanings. The paper considers different approaches to resolving our ongoing ethical dilemma and examines their potential for honoring the flesh and blood girl’s right to be heard amidst concerns about her digital visibility.
Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) > H62 Study and teaching. Research
H Social Sciences > HM Sociology > HM621 Culture > HM636 Human body. Social aspects
H Social Sciences > HM Sociology > HM481 Theory. Method. Relations to other subjects > HM500 Visual sociology
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BJ Ethics > BJ1725 Ethics of social groups, classes etc. Professional ethics
Creators: Fink, Janet and Lomax, Helen
Publisher: Berghahn
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Research Centre > Institute of Health and Wellbeing
Research Centres > Centre for Health Sciences and Services
Date: 1 December 2016
Date Type: Publication
Journal or Publication Title: Girlhood Studies
Volume: 9
Number: 3
Language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3167/ghs.2016.090303
ISSN: 1938-8209
Status: Published / Disseminated
Related URLs:
URI: http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/8671

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