Conflicts and tensions in dual roles

Conducting research in a non-clinical mental health recovery organisation

Abstract

Those living with mental illness have benefitted from non-clinical recovery organisations, such as the Clubhouse Model of Psychosocial Rehabilitation. Research conducted for a Clubhouse brings many benefits to it. However, the model is governed by cultural practices. These practices create beliefs that influence the conduct of the research despite the benefits it can bring. This autoethnographic account is about my involvement as a member and researcher within a Clubhouse. How cultural practices and beliefs influenced the research is detailed from observation notes and memory work. The conflicts and tensions I experienced were shaped by such cultural factors. This account concludes with reflections on how I felt about the events. It advises other ethnographers to research the mental illness field before attempting a project in it.