Protecting Them, Protecting You: Tips and Cautions When Doing Research in Sexual Offending

Abstract

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.Doing research in sexual offending might sound thrilling but it is also a troublesome topic that waves many emotions and entails some delicate aspects to cope with in which both researchers, participants, and audience can be affected. Through this chapter, based on my 6 years’ experience in doing research with both survivors and people who committed sexual offenses, I will guide you on how to do research in this field while protecting both yourself and others. First, I start with three general tips when approaching the topic (examine your motivations, combat myths, and use the appropriate terms). Then, I highlight three cautions to consider when collecting data: How to deal with permissions; the need for piloting the interview; and things to consider regarding the final sample of participants (e.g., deciding the best composition of the group, assessing their initial attitude; potential awkward situations that may happen and consider to be accompanied with a co-interviewer). Next, I share some useful techniques when facing common situations, such as participants’ denying their assumption of the crime or asking about delicate sexual content, among others. After that, some ethical and emotional aspects will be discussed regarding the consent form; the participants’ stigmatization, and the emotional consequences of doing research with traumatic content. Finally, I summarize the lessons learned, which entail looking for your own comfort as a researcher, prioritize ethics with participants, and foresee risks when disclosing information to any audience.