'We shouldn't be told to shut up, we should be told we can speak out': Reflections on using arts-based methods to research disability hate crime. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burch, Leah
• Is Part Of: Qualitative social work. Volume 21:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 393
• Page End: 412
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: Disability -- participatory research -- sensitive topics -- art -- hate crime -- art-based; Social service -- Periodicals; Social service -- Research -- Periodicals; Social service -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 361.305
• DOI: 10.1177/14733250211002888
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-3250

Abstract

The concept of hate crime has been subject to ongoing debate among academics, practitioners and policy-makers. Yet for many disabled people, this concept remains to be ambiguous and conceptually 'fuzzy.' In this article, I reflect upon the use of arts-based methods in order to explore disabled people's understandings and experiences of hate crime. Specifically, I offer methodological reflections on how the process of making mood-boards can invite participants to revisit personal experiences, prompt sensitive and supportive discussions, and present knowledge in more creative ways. I also consider some of the difficulties involved with arts-based methods, particularly where such activities can evoke discomfort. Despite these methods creating some challenges, this article supports the use of arts-based methods as enabling a more collaborative and participatory research process. In particular, I argue that these alternative methods provide an opportunity to sensitively explore potentially upsetting topics such as hate crime.