Cartoon Elicitation: Can Drawings Facilitate Interviews on Sensitive Topics?

Researching sensitive topics poses multiple methodological and ethical challenges. To overcome these, this contribution proposes the method of cartoon elicitation, inspired by photo-elicitation and based on framing theory. The impersonality and satire of cartoons and the distance made between a sensitive topic and real life events can diminish potential feelings of threat among respondents. The cartoons offered opportunities to (a) discuss potential stigmatising aspects of a sensitive topic; (b) trigger memories while empowering participants to decide what (not) to share with the researchers; and (c) stimulate rapport between researchers and participants. The contribution elaborately examines the used method in a case study where radicalisation was debated with persons who might be perceived as suspect within the larger community. It is discussed how this method is applicable to study a broad range of sensitive topics