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ABSTRACT
A common criticism of phenomenological methods has been that there is a singular focus on individual experience at the cost of broader group level phenomena. In contrast, psychoanalytically informed psychosocial methods have continued to develop novel ways of exploring group level material. A notable recent methodology is the visual matrix method (Froggett, Manley & Roy 2015), an innovative methodological development that draws on ideas from social dreaming (Lawrence 2003, 2005). In this article, we describe the development and application of a group level existential-phenomenological method, inspired by the visual matrix method. In collaboration with a filmmaker, we produced a film series designed to engage the public with research findings on “enduring love.” The viewing experience was explored using a modified version of the visual matrix method. We discuss the value of this methodological development for research within the phenomenological tradition as well as potential tensions.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Notes
1. Levinas (Citation1969, Citation1981, Citation1985) is another figure who offers considerable scope for the development of a social phenomenology (see Dimitrova Citation2016).
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Darren Langdridge
Darren Langdridge is Professor of Psychology & Sexuality at The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK, and a UKCP accredited existential psychotherapist. He has researched and written on sexualities, phenomenological methodology, and psychotherapy for many years.
Jacqui Gabb
Jacqui Gabb is Professor of Sociology & Intimacy at The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK. Her research centres on intimacy and family life, with particular emphasis on the contemporary dynamics of policy, professional practice and personal relationships.
Jamie Lawson
Jamie Lawson is a Teaching Fellow in Anthropology at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK. He has wide ranging research interests in sex and sexuality, with a specific focus on queer and BDSM identities.