ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the intersection of race, gender and class in child sexual abuse research and examines power relations in the research process. It focuses on the notion that an investigation of the relationship between race and gender in the research process is necessary to understand the complex ways power relations are manifested, thus heightening a number of ethical concerns. The chapter draws on a study of black mothers whose children have been sexually abused, to examine the factors influencing power relations in the research process. It discusses the broader theoretical and methodological issues. The chapter outlines some issues associated with gathering data in research on child sexual abuse in black families. It looks at some specific dynamics relating to power in negotiating with gatekeepers to identify research participants for the study. The chapter considers some issues concerning power relations between the researcher and the researched in the context of negotiating consent.
