Potential challenges of using narrative inquiry with at-risk young people

Abstract

<p><b>Background</b> Being 'at risk' puts an individual in danger of future negative outcomes. Conducting qualitative research such as narrative inquiry with at-risk individuals may result in challenges for participants and researchers.</p> <p><b>Aim</b> To present an overview of several challenges that arose when conducting narrative research with at-risk young people.</p> <p><b>Discussion</b> The main challenges were disclosure of trauma, existing relationships, insider and outsider perspectives, power relationships, and the emotional safety of participants and researchers.</p> <p><b>Conclusions</b> It is imperative to identify potential challenges before beginning research and make plans to address them.</p> <p><b>lmplication for practice</b> Researchers can use this article to help plan for challenges that may arise with this kind of research with vulnerable participants.</p>