Understanding the ethics of storytelling

The ethical practice of storytelling, especially when it involves individuals sharing personal experiences, is a critical consideration in various contexts, including non-profit work and public health research. These ethical considerations are essential to avoid exploitation, protect vulnerable individuals, and maintain the integrity of storytelling in various contexts.

Here are some key ethical considerations and best practices based on the provided web search results:

1. Respecting Autonomy and Dignity

• It is important to respect the autonomy and dignity of the individuals sharing their stories, ensuring that they have the final say in how their stories are presented and used.

• Prioritising transparency and clear communication regarding the use of the stories, including the duration of use and the option to request removal.

2. Anonymity and Privacy

• Providing options for individuals to remain anonymous, especially when sharing sensitive experiences such as domestic violence or homelessness, to protect their privacy and prevent potential harm.

• Obtaining explicit consent and ensuring the protection of personal information, including using pseudonyms and limiting the amount of identifying information included in the story.

3. Collaborative Storytelling

• Emphasising collaboration when working with individuals sharing their experiences, treating them as peers with valuable insights and vital contributions to the narrative about social change.

• Recognizing the storytellers' representational power and the importance of their consent in shaping their own narratives.

4. Avoiding Exploitation

• Avoiding the promise of special treatment or higher-level services in exchange for sharing stories, ensuring that individuals do not feel obligated or exploited.

• Recognizing the potential harm of disclosing certain information and omitting details that could put individuals at risk for harm.

5. Informed Consent and Consideration of Vulnerability

• Ensuring that individuals, especially vulnerable subjects, provide informed consent before participating in storytelling projects, considering the potential impact on their well-being and privacy.

• Providing cultural safety and support, to protect individuals who are in the midst of trauma from further harm.