The Ethnographic Self

My research interests are underpinned by a sustained, critical methodological engagement with ethnographic and qualitative research. This includes work on contemporary developments in qualitative data analysis, writing and representation, as well as a focus on of the self and (auto)biography in qualitative inquiry. I have led and been involved in a number of funded projects focussing on qualitative research methods and methodological development. I am currently the Director of the Cardiff Node of the ESRC National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM) Qualitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences: Innovation, Integration and Impact (QUALITI) (2005-8).

Introduction Locating the Self The Interpersonal Field The Embodiment of Fieldwork The Sex(ual) Field Romancing the Field Writing the Self (Re)Presenting the Field Consequences and Commitments

`Whether you are contemplating ethnographic research, have already done it or are primarily interested in it as a reader, this book should deepen your appreciation of one of the most challenging activities that any social scientist or management research can engage in' - Management Learning `The chapter entitled "The sex(ual) field" is a good example of how challenging Coffey's work is. She considers how the sexual status of the researcher can make a difference to the research; what the implications are surrounding physical sexual activity occurring during fieldwork; as well as fieldwork conducted in explicitly erotic settings. By considering this most personal of arenas, Coffey highlights the existence and participation of the researcher as a whole in the ethnographic research process....The Ethnographic Self is a useful reminder of the ways in which real people are involved in social research' - British Educational Research Journal