Complex ethical and methodological issues can sometimes arise when conducting research into sensitive topics. By employing an autobiographic approach to explore the personal dilemmas that arose for the author while undertaking doctoral research on workplace bullying in Irish education, this article highlights potential difficulties and tensions which may arise for researchers (particularly those at the beginning of their careers) when conducting sensitive research. Specific attention is paid to the importance of protecting the researcher from harm, the exiting of the research relationship in an appropriate manner, and the necessity of anticipating potential problems before they become manifest.
International studies have consistently highlighted the challenges experienced by Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual (LGB) teachers from around the world as they negotiate their personal and professional identities within the context of an oftenhostile work environment, In Ireland, the education system remains heavily influenced by denominational mores, particularly those of the Roman Catholic Church. Unsurprisingly, with the declaration by the Roman Catholic Church that homosexuality was 'intrinsically disordered' (Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church, 2003), LGB teachers' professional identity is often (in)formed by fear as well as perceived, or actual, harassment, bullying and overt discrimination. This study represents the first in-depth examination of the apparent contradiction between EU law (Employment Equality Directive -2000/78/EC) and the derogation afforded organizations with denominational ethos in Irish equality legislation which explicitly permitted discrimination in order to protect that ethos from being 'undermined' (Section 37(1), Employment Equality Acts, 1998-2011). Drawing on semi-structured, in-depth interviews with twenty-three, LGB Irish primary school teachers, the research reveals the tensions which exist between the competing (and legitimate) rights of faith organizations to protect their values against those of LGB workers 'to working conditions which respect his or her health, safety and dignity' (Article 31, EU Charter of Fundamental Rights)..
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