Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University,
Hamilton, ON, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Sandra Moll, Institute of Applied
Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1400 Main St. West, Hamilton, ON, L8S
1C7, Canada. Tel.: +1 905 525 9140, ext. 23523; Fax: +1 905 546 0069; E-mail: molls@mcmaster.ca
Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this paper is to examine key challenges
associated with conducting politically sensitive research within a workplace
setting, and to highlight strategic partnerships that can be developed to
address these challenges. Method: The author's research on employee mental health issues
within a large healthcare facility serves as the foundation for identification
and description of "political minefields" that investigators may encounter when
conducting organizational case study research. Key methodological principles
from the literature on qualitative case study research will frame discussion of
how to understand and address political sensitivities in the research process.
Results: The benefits of conducting organizational case study
research will be outlined, followed by discussion of methodological challenges
that can emerge in negotiating entry, collecting data (gatekeepers, researcher
reflexivity, participant authenticity and non-maleficence), and communicating
research findings. Conclusion: Courage, collaboration and clear communication with
stakeholders at all levels of the organization are critical to the success of
workplace based case study research.
