Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Photo-Elicitation for Inclusive Research on Sensitive Topics

Sexual Dysfunction and Malay Women

  • Reference work entry
  • First Online:
Handbook of Social Inclusion

  • 75 Accesses

Abstract

Research into sensitive issues such as sexuality requires inclusive research methods if the experiences of women from diverse sociocultural backgrounds are to be included. Photo-elicitation is one of the visual methods adopted by the social and health sciences, particularly in research involving phenomena related to children and young adults, suitable for inclusive approaches as it offers opportunities for the inclusion of sensitive topics and/or vulnerable populations. This chapter uses a research study to explore sexuality issues among Malay women as a case study to show how photo-elicitation can be adopted. The aim of the research was to understand the meanings heterosexual Malay women attach to sexuality and their experiences of living with sexual dysfunction. In this case study, photo-elicitation facilitated data collection with photographs provided by the researchers. Photo-elicitation enabled participant experiences to be visualized and to be understood in ways that showed how the women perceived their problems and their impact. Communication on a topic that is strictly socially taboo was enhanced through the use of the photo-elicitation method. The chapter explains why participants preferred photo-elicitation over other visual methods and concludes with a summary of the strengths of photo elicitation as a method, implications for practice, and recommendations for further use.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Log in via an institution
Chapter
USD 29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD 1,099.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Hardcover Book
USD 1,199.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

References

  • Allen, L. (2011). ‘Picture this’: Using photo-methods in research on sexualities and schooling. Qualitative Research, 11(5), 487–504. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468794111413224.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Asniar, H. U., & Wironpanich, W. (2011). Photo-voice as a qualitative research method in nursing and health sciences: A literature review. In 1st Syiah Kuala University Annual International Conference, Banda Aceh, Indonesia, 29–30 Nov 2011. Proceeding, Vol. 1(1), pp. 163–171.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bareham, A., Locke, A., & Yeadon-Lee, T. (2013). A snapshot of identity: using photo-elicitation interviews to explore identities in women”s hostels. In Social Psychology Section Annual Conference University of Exeter, UK, 28–30.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bates, E. A., Mccann, J. J., Kaye, L. K., et al. (2017). “Beyond words”: A researcher’s guide to using photo elicitation in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 14(4), 459–481. https://doi.org/10.1080/14780887.2017.1359352.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bauman, Z. (1988). Viewpoint: Sociology and postmodernity. The Sociological Review, 36(4), 790–813.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Berger, J. (1992). Keeping a rendezvous, New York: Vintage International.

    Google Scholar 

  • Benza, S., & Liamputtong, P. (2017). Becoming an ‘Amai’: Meanings and experiences of motherhood amongst Zimbabwean women living in Melbourne, Australia. Midwifery, 45, 72–78. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.midw.2016.12.011.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Campbell, R., Adams, A., Wasco, S., et al. (2010). What has it been like for you to talk with me today?: The impact of participating in interview research on rape survivors. Violence Against Women, 16(1), 60–83. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077801209353576.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Castleden, H., Garvin, T., & First Nation, H. (2008). Modifying photovoice for community-based participatory Indigenous research. Social Science & Medicine, 66(6), 1393–1405. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.11.030.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Che Ya, S. N., Muhamad, R., Mohd Zain, N., et al. (2021). Coping strategies for sexual problems and sexual dysfunction amongst Malay women with breast cancer. A qualitative study. Sexual Medicine, 9(3), 100336. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100336.

  • Copes, H., Tchoula, W., Brookman, F., et al. (2018). Photo-elicitation interviews with vulnerable populations: Practical and ethical considerations. Deviant Behavior, 39(4), 475–494. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2017.1407109.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative inquiry and research design choosing among five approaches (4th ed.). Thousand Oaks: SAGE.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cross, K., Kabel, A., & Lysack, C. (2006). Images of self and spinal cord injury: exploring drawing as a visual method in disability research. Visual Studies, 21(2), 183–193. https://doi.org/10.1080/1472860600945044.

  • Eder, D., & Fingerson, L. (2002). Interviewing children and adolescent. In J. F. Gubrium & J. A. Holstein (Eds.), Handbook of interview research: Context and method (1st ed., pp. 181–201). Thousand Oaks: SAGE.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fritz, H., & Lysack, C. (2014). “I see it now”: Using photo elicitation to understand chronic illness self-management. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 81(4), 247–255. https://doi.org/10.1177/0008417414540517.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Glaw, X., Inder, K., Kable, A., & Hazelton, M. (2017). Visual methodologies in qualitative research: Autophotography and photo elicitation applied to mental health research. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 16(1), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1177/1609406917748215.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Goddard, C. (1997). Cultural values and ‘cultural scripts’ of Malay (Bahasa Melayu). Journal of Pragmatics, 27(2), 183–201. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0378-2166(96)00032-X.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Goddard, C. (2000). “Cultural scripts” and communicative style in Malay (“Bahasa Melayu”). Anthropological Linguistics, 42(1), 81–106. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/30028746

  • Guillemin, M., & Westall, C. (2008). Gaining insight into women’s knowing of postnatal depression using drawing. In P. Liamputtong & J. Rumbold (Eds.), Knowing differently: Art-based and collaborative research methods, 1st edn. New York: Nova Science Publishers.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hamdan, R., & Radzi, S. B. (2014). The meanings of female passivity in traditional Malay literature. Asian Social Science, 10(17), 222–228. https://doi.org/10.5539/ass.v10n17p222.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Harley, D., & Hunn, V. (2015). Utilization of photovoice to explore hope and spirituality among low-income African American adolescents. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 32, 3–15. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-014-0354-4.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Harper, D. (2002). Talking about pictures: A case for photo elicitation. Visual Studies, 17(1), 13–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/14725860220137345.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hatten, K., Forin, T., & Adams, R. (2013). A picture elicits a thousand meanings: Photo elicitation as a method for investigating cross-disciplinary identity development. In Proceedings of the American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference, Georgia.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hugh-Jones, S., & Gibson, S. (2012). Collecting your data. In C. Sullivan, S. Gibson, & S. Riley (Eds.), Doing your qualitative psychology project (1st ed., pp. 101–104). London: SAGE.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Johnson, C. M., Sharkey, J. R., McIntosh, A. W., et al. (2010). “I’m the Momma”: Using photo-elicitation to understand matrilineal influence on family food choice. BMC Womens Health, 10, 21–35. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6874-10-21.

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  • Joseph, J., Liamputtong, P., & Brodribb, W. (2019). Postpartum breastfeeding experiences in the traditional-biomedical crossroads: A qualitative study using drawing with Vietnamese and Myanmarese refugee women in Australia. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(11), 2855–2866. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.14110.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Liamputtong, P. (2007). Researching the vulnerable: A guide to sensitive research methods. London: SAGE.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Liamputtong, P. (2020). Qualitative research methods (5th ed.). Melbourne: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Liamputtong, P., & Fernandez, S. (2015). The drawing method and Burmese refugee children’s perceptions of health and illness. Australasian Journal of Early Childhood, 40(1), 23–32.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Loizos, P. (2001). Visual anthropology. In N. J. Smelser & P. B. Baltes (Eds.), International encyclopedia of the social & behavioral sciences (pp. 16246–16250). London: Elsevier.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Meo, A. I. (2010). Picturing students’ habitus: the advantages and limitations of photo-elicitation interviewing in qualitative study in the city of Buenos Aires. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 9(2), 149–171. https://doi.org/10.1177/16094069100090023.

  • Morgan, M., McInerney, F., Rumbold, J., et al. (2009). Drawing the experience of chronic vaginal thrush and complementary and alternative medicine. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 12(2), 127–146. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645570902752316.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Muhamad, R., Liamputtong, P., O’Halloran, P., et al. (2016). Meanings of sexuality among heterosexual women: A metasynthesis. International Journal of Sexual Health, 28(3), 187–204. https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2016.1167151.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Muhamad, R., Dell, H., Liamputtong, P., et al. (2019). Meanings of sexuality: Views from Malay women with sexual dysfunction. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 48, 935–947. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-018-1228-1.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Murray, L., Dunne, M. P., Vo, V. T., et al. (2015). Postnatal depressive symptoms amongst women in Central Vietnam: A cross-sectional study investigating prevalence and associations with social, cultural and infant factors. BMC Pregnancy Child, 15, 234. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-015-0662-5.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nash, M. (2015). Shapes of motherhood: Exploring postnatal body image through photographs. Journal of Gender Studies, 24, 18–37. https://doi.org/10.1080/09589236.2013.797340.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ndione, L. C., & Remy, E. (2018). Combining images and words in order to understand the cultural meaning of practices: What photo-elicitation reveals. Rech et Appl en Mark, 33(3), 61–84. https://doi.org/10.1177/2051570718782450.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nguyen, T. T. A., Liamputtong, P., Horey, D., et al. (2018). Knowledge of sexuality and reproductive health of people with physical disabilities in Vietnam. Sexuality and Disability, 36(1), 3–18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-017-9515-7.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Reavey, P. (2011). Visual methods in psychology: Using and interpreting images in qualitative research. New York: Routledge.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rose, G. (2012). Visual methodologies (3rd ed.). London: SAGE.

    Google Scholar 

  • Seidman, I. (2013). Interviewing as qualitative research: A guide for researchers in education and the social sciences. New York: Teachers College Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Serry, T., & Liamputtong, P. (2022). The in-depth interviewing method in health. In P. Liamputtong (Ed.), Research methods in health: Foundations for evidence-based practice (4th ed., pp. 76–92). Melbourne: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Seth, K. (2020, February 24). Can i use this photo on social media? Understanding image copyright. Retrieved from https://blog.hootsuite.com/understanding-image-copyright/

  • Smith, E. (2015). Of fish and goddesses: Using photo-elicitation with sex workers. Qualitative Research Journal, 15(2), 241–249. https://doi.org/10.1108/QRJ-01-2015-0006.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Teti, K. M., Bauerband, L. A., Rolbiecki, A., & Young, C. (2020). An exploration of apparel and well-being among transmasculine young adults. Journal of LGBT Youth, 17(1), 53–69. https://doi.org/10.1080/19361653.2019.1611519.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ussher, J., Hawkey, A. J., Perz, J., Liamputtong, P., Sekar, J., Marjadi, B., Schmied, V., Dune, T., & Brooke, E. (2021). Genrder affirmattion and social exclusion amongst trans women of color in Australia. International Journal of Transgender Health. https://doi.org/10.1080/26895269.2021.1947432.

  • Wagner, J. (2011). Visual studies and empirical social inquiry. In E. Margolis & L. Pauwels (Eds.), The SAGE handbook of visual research methods (pp. 49–71). London: SAGE.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, C., & Burris, M. A. (1997). Photovoice: Concept, methodology, and use for participatory needs assessment. Health Education & Behavior, 24(3), 369–387. https://doi.org/10.1177/109019819702400309.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Westall, C., & Liamputtong, P. (2011). Motherhood and postnatal depression. Dordrecht: Springer.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Wilkin, A., & Liamputtong, P. (2010). The photovoice method: Researching the experiences of aboriginal health workers through photographs. Australian Journal of Primary Health, 16(3), 231–239. https://doi.org/10.1071/PY09071.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wolgemuth, J. R., Erdil-Moody, Z., Opsal, T., et al. (2015). Participants’ experiences of the qualitative interview: Considering the importance of research paradigms. Qualitative Research, 15, 351–372. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468794114524222.

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Family Medicine Department, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia

    Rosediani Muhamad

  2. Department of Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, Bundoora, VIC, Australia

    Dell Horey

  3. College of Health Sciences, VinUniversity, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Pranee Liamputtong

Authors
  1. Rosediani Muhamad
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Dell Horey
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Pranee Liamputtong
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Rosediani Muhamad .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. College of Health Sciences, VinUniversity, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Pranee Liamputtong

Appendices

Appendix A

1.1 Arts-Based Guide

For drawing participants:

  • The next section is a bit different from the one we have gone through. For this section, I will ask you to complete drawings (at least 3). Please know that you do not have to be an artist; all I ask is that you do the best you can. Just like the question in the interview in particular your experience living with sexual dysfunction. There are no right or wrong answers, or in this case images. Any image you create is simply an expression of your feelings and thoughts.

    • For the first image(s): Can you draw something in your mind, the sexuality-learning experience you have gone through?

    • Second image(s): Can you draw how sexual difficulty has made you feel in day-to-day life including experiencing sexual pleasure?

    • Third image(s): Can you draw how your relationship with your husband has made you feel in day-to-day life?

Appendix B

1.1 Example of a Specific Consent Form

figure a

Appendix C

1.1 Example of a Publication Consent Form

Appendix D

1.1 Example of a patient’s Agreement for Hiring the Camera Form

figure c

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2022 Springer Nature Switzerland AG

About this entry

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this entry

Muhamad, R., Horey, D., Liamputtong, P. (2022). Photo-Elicitation for Inclusive Research on Sensitive Topics. In: Liamputtong, P. (eds) Handbook of Social Inclusion. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-89594-5_62

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-89594-5_62

  • Published:

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-89593-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-89594-5

  • eBook Packages: MedicineReference Module Medicine

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation