Tensions in (re)presenting the self in reflexive autoethnographical research

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore a number of tensions arising in the presentation of autoethnographical research. Design/methodology/approach The paper provides a reflexive autoethnographical account of undertaking and publically presenting autoethnographical research. Findings The paper problematises the extent and form of disclosure; the voice and representation of the researcher; the difficulties in dealing with sensitive subjects; conflicts between public and private domains; questions of validity; the extent and form of theorisation of autoethnographical narratives; and emotion and performativity in presenting autoethnographical research. Originality/value The paper provides an analysis of the potential of autoethnography, while exploring the presentational and performative context of academia.