Split personalities: role conflict between the nurse and the nurse researcher

Colbourne, L. and Sque, M. (2004) Split personalities: role conflict between the nurse and the nurse researcher. Journal of Research in Nursing, 9 (4), 297-304. (doi:10.1177/136140960400900410).

Abstract

This paper is a personal account of the nurse-nurse researcher role conflict encountered while conducting a qualitative research study. Difficulties in the transition from a clinical post to a nurse researcher role are described and the experiences of other authors dealing with such a role change are used to illustrate potential resolutions. An understanding of the concept of reflexivity is offered and a description of how this can be applied to consider the impact of ‘the self’ on the research. The paper suggests a solution to the well-known role conflict encountered by nurse researchers: including the nurse in the process of research, and being confident about taking a personal investigative approach. It is argued that drawing on the interactive skills of the nurse can benefit and not detract from the research process.

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