Abstract
This chapter describes the methodology of body map**, a visual technique that is used to collect qualitative data from participants about their subjective experiences pertaining mainly to bodily experiences. We begin with a definition of body map** and provide an account of its history. We describe the process of conducting a body map** study and offer some examples of when this approach is used most appropriately in its various forms. In preparing to use a body map** approach, researchers should be mindful of whether body map** is the best approach to answer the research question; whether the purpose of the body map been made clear in the study; whether it is an appropriate technique to use with participants; what other qualitative methods will be used in conjunction with body map**; how many contact sessions will be required with participants; how structured the body map** sessions will be; and how the data will be analyzed. We provide a detailed example of how to conduct a body map** study and call attention to important considerations such as ensuring methodological rigor and the ethical aspects of using this approach. Body map** is an innovative methodological technique that is often able to capture the imagination of research participants. Our aim in this chapter is to convince readers that body map** has its place as a methodological approach alongside a range of other approaches in social and behavioral research.
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Coetzee, B., Roomaney, R., Willis, N., Kagee, A. (2019). Body Map** in Research. In: Liamputtong, P. (eds) Handbook of Research Methods in Health Social Sciences. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-5251-4_3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-5251-4_3
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