Competing Values: A Respectful Critique of Narrative Research

Smythe and Murray (2000) presented the basic ethical issues in narrative research (NR) in a comprehensive, well-reasoned, and direct manner. In this critique, we highlight 3 issues. Two matters appear to challenge the internal inconsistency of the assumptions of NR: privileging some voices over others and a potential inherent conflict of interest for some researchers. We also examine some issues regarding the protection of research participants and conclude with modest recommendations.