Autoethnography as Sensemaking: A Story of Bullying

Abstract

This autoethnography shares my experiences of being bullied at work. I approach this autoethnography using Weick’s (1995) analysis of sensemaking, while also valuing the postmodernist recognition of multiple selves and multiple interpretations, and utilising an historical perspective. I offer a series of contemporaneous file notes and correspondence written many years ago which are presented alongside my interpretive, sensemaking commentary. I endeavour to shed light on aspects of my self (or selves), the actions of the bully, as well as recognising how that working environment, its culture, and my own actions and reactions, served to constitute the story that is (partially) me. Retrospective reflection reveals a major shift in identity from one who had been open, trusting, confident and friendly to a person who became secretive, fearful, provocative, cautious and tormented. The potential of these, or other, identity changes in targets of bullying are highlighted to extend current knowledge.

Key words:

• Autoethnography
• Sensemaking
• Bullying