A male ethnographer’s perspective on sexual harassment in fieldwork: a research note

Abstract

This research note focuses on the sexual harassment experienced by the author during ethnographic fieldwork in India. Analysis of the event indicates that the fact that he is a man influenced his response to the sexual overtures made by his male informant and heightened his sense of fear. Thus while being of the masculine gender can be an advantage for the male ethnographer, it can also be a source of anxiety and carries some tangible risks. This study concludes that power relations in fieldwork are complex, and we must take into consideration our identity and position when assessing the risks inherent in fieldwork.