A Reflection on the Tensions of Acting in Dual Roles of Doctoral Researcher and Practitioner when Evaluating a Lifestyle Intervention for Breast Cancer Patients

This article uses the experience, reflection, action (ERA) cycle of reflection to consider some of the tensions faced due to the divergent priorities and requirements of these two roles. One challenge occurred during study recruitment when a few potential participants did not meet the inclusion criteria for the study but still wished to attend the intervention sessions. It was also a challenge to mitigate the risks of distress of potentially vulnerable participants during group intervention sessions. In both instances there was a potential conflict between the needs of patients and research requirements. This reflection concluded that the obligations of both roles should be adhered to where possible, but if in doubt, the needs of the participants were paramount.
Source: Journal of Cancer Education - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research