New book gives researchers the tools to tackle sensitive topics - without losing sight of themselves

A University of Birmingham researcher has published a practical guide for social scientists working on distressing and difficult subject matter - from crime and domestic violence to sexual behaviour and mental health - tackling everything from ethical approval to looking after yourself. 

Researching sensitive topics is one of the most demanding challenges in social science - and one of the least supported. Now, a new book from University of Birmingham Research Fellow Dr Amy Burrell and her co-authors aims to change that. 

Published by Palgrave Macmillan in August 2026, Researching Sensitive Topics In Social Science is a step-by-step companion for researchers at every career stage - from undergraduate students designing their first study to post-doctoral researchers leading complex, multi-site projects. 

The book draws on Dr Burrell's 20 years of experience researching crime and policing, including extensive work with vulnerable groups such as victims, children, and offenders, as well as practitioners including police officers. It is co-authored with Dr Francesca Walsh, Dr Daniel Waldeck , and Rachael Leggett of Coventry University. 

The book covers the full arc of a sensitive research project: from deciding whether a topic is feasible to plan, designing the methodology, and navigating ethical approval, through to managing the unexpected - such as when a participant becomes distressed during an interview or discloses information outside the original scope of the research. 

The book addresses the risk of vicarious trauma - the psychological toll of repeated exposure to others' distressing experiences – arguing this is not a niche concern but a real and serious consideration for anyone working in sensitive areas. There is also detailed guidance on building successful research collaborations, and - crucially - sharing findings in a way that is ethical, accessible, and does not cause further harm to those whose stories underpin the research.  

That emphasis reflects a growing area of work at the University of Birmingham to better protect and support researchers working with emotionally demanding material or in fields that can attract public scrutiny. Recent University-led activity includes guidance on protecting the mental health of researchers in emotionally demanding research, alongside resources and training designed to help colleagues anticipate risk, manage distressing content and access appropriate support.

Researching Sensitive Topics In Social Science offers a practical and compassionate roadmap for researchers working in challenging areas, combining clear guidance on project design, ethics and dissemination with a strong emphasis on responsible engagement with participants’ experiences.