Visually Embodying Psychosis: The Ethics of Performing Difficult Experiences

  • Katherine M. Boydell
  • Carmela Solimine
  • Siona Jackson
Chapter
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Abstract

Artistic modes of research representation may enhance the likelihood of impact (negative or positive) on audiences and, consequently, on artists and researchers. Dance provides a visual vocabulary wherein subjective experiences of mental health are shared and research results disseminated. We focus on a key ethical issue with using dance performers as co-researchers—the concept of “dangerous emotional terrain” which describes potentially negative impacts of the embodiment of research depicting difficult lived experiences. Two central strategies to address negative emotional impact are identified: reflexive practice and creation of a safe and supportive environment via collaborative partnerships with research team and performers.

Keywords

Mental Health Care Knowledge Translation Ethical Challenge Dance Therapy Difficult Experience 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Copyright information

© The Author(s) 2016

Authors and Affiliations

  • Katherine M. Boydell
    • 1
  • Carmela Solimine
    • 2
  • Siona Jackson
    • 3
  1. 1.Black Dog Institute University of New South WalesSydneyAustralia
  2. 2.The Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoCanada
  3. 3.Dance ChoreographerTorontoCanada

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