Theorizing bodily dialogs – reflection on knowledge production in phenomenological research

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Every aspect of research engages the body in some way. Purpose In this article the researchers discuss the epistemological challenges of engaging with lived experiences and the opportunities and challenges that arise in conjunction with the embodied aspects of interviewing, analysis and turning visual and oral research material into written text. Method The authors draw on experience from interviewing and reflect on how phenomenological philosophy of the body can both challenge and contribute to unpacking the role of the body in research processes. Results Research on patients’ experience of illness provides examples of how bodily experiences are intersubjective and subjective explored. The authors discuss how to let the bodily spoken contribute to the knowledge creation by “taking the body with them” in all parts of the research process. Conclusion The article contributes with theoretical perspectives and highlights intercorporeal and inter-affective bodily communication as an essential element in physiotherapy research practice.