Smutsig etnografi

– en metoddiskussion

Abstract

In this article the methodological consequences of studying difficult fields of research is discussed, using the concept of dirty ethnography as a point of departure. Being dirty as a researcher has two implications; firstly it refers to the process where the researcher is positioned in an ethnographic field where different positions, subjectivities and/or identities are merged together, sometimes causing conflict or anxiety. Here the dirtiness is understod as something inevitable that is a necessary part of every research process. Secondly, dirtiness refers to the more specific research that takes place in contexts where we feel uncomfortable or where our ethical standards are more difficult to uphold. The etnographical example discussed here is compulsory care of problematic teenagers with various behavioral and psychosocial difficulties. The analytical focus is directed towards institutional staff working in this environment. Here the different kind of dirtiness that is actualized in this field is discussed as important methodological and analytical tools to further develop ethnological conversations on self-reflexivity.