Negative Emotions in the Field: A Narrative Analysis of EFL Researchers’
Experience
Abstract
Through narrative analysis the present research traces the range and
genesis of negative emotions that three English as Foreign Language
(EFL) researchers experienced in different research sites. The method of
narrative analysis helps depict and interpret the lived experiences of
the researchers. This study draws on autobiographical and narrative data
to illustrate how negative emotions evolve during fieldwork, a
research aspect that is absent in the existing literature (Bondi, 2007).
Findings suggest that the researchers experience a wide range of
negative emotions namely ethical dilemma, anger, anxiety, guilt, and
shame. Thus the study carries implications for establishing theoretical
concepts and informing policy decisions. The theory level implication is
that the researchers’ negative emotions evolve through and within
emotionally charged phases such as ethical dilemma, anger, anxiety,
guilt, and shame. As regards policy level implication, the study
reinforces the appeal of previous research works that the IRB
requirements should be made flexible according to specific contexts.