In this introductory chapter we examine a range of different definitions of sensitive research. We discuss the historical developments of sensitive research and explore some of the sensitivities inherent in undertaking qualitative research on such topics. We outline the importance of researching sensitive topics and provide an overview of the remainder of the book.

Defining sensitive research

There are many definitions of sensitive research, ranging from those that refer to the topic of investigation to those that encompass the whole of the research activity, including its implications for practice and the wider research community. Joan Sieber and Liz Stanley (1988:49) define ‘socially sensitive’ research as, ‘studies in which there are potential consequences or implications, either directly for the participants in the research or for the class of individuals represented by the research’. This definition of sensitive research is very general and by applying it, almost all social research could be defined as sensitive. All research has consequences of some kind. However, some consequences may be more directly harmful than others. Often discussions of what constitutes sensitive research focus too narrowly on only the ethical dimensions of sensitive research.