Chapter 6: Autoethnography: An Ethics Challenge for Researchers and Reviewers

Autoethnography has gained significant traction in qualitative research due to its introspective nature and its ability to connect personal experiences with broader societal and cultural contexts. In this chapter, I explore the ethical challenges inherent in autoethnographic research, where the researcher is both the subject and object of inquiry. While this approach offers opportunities for deep reflection and the creation of new knowledge, it also presents unique ethical dilemmas, which result in conventional research ethics guidelines falling short in addressing these. I propose an expanded ethical framework that includes relational and contextual ethics, as well as an ethics of the self, which emphasises self-care for researchers as they navigate emotionally charged topics. Additionally, I suggest that an attitudinal shift is required regarding the role of research ethics committees (RECs), which often prioritise procedural governance over meaningful ethical reflection. I advocate for more flexible review processes, while also suggesting social fiction as an alternative solution for researchers to ensure that autoethnographic research is conducted ethically.