ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we explore vulnerability in the medical professional and the impact this can have on the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals, as well as the potential wider consequences for patients. Traditionally, doctors are not thought of as needing support or ‘marginalised’. In this chapter, we explore how sometimes this can be an appropriate description in some situations. We reflect on three studies that the authors have been involved in over the last decade that used a mix of qualitative research methods. Our employment of such methods enabled us to reach out to doctors who may otherwise not have a voice in research and to explore a complex interplay between individual doctors and the systems within which they work. From our reframing of our work for this chapter, we highlight some key principles (i.e. inclusivity, methodological and analytical rigour and experience and voice) in our approach to mixed methods. We draw out some of the wider lessons for researchers contemplating the use of mixed methods to carry out research with other groups, particularly those involving wellbeing and health.
