“The pain is real”: A [modified] photovoice exploration of disability,chronic pain,and chronic illness (in)visibility

Abstract

This study uses an innovative modification to Photovoice methodology to explore the lived experiences of people who have non-apparent disabilities, chronic pain and/or chronic illness. Responding to limitations to mobility, movement, transportation, capacity, and access, the project provided a series of studio sessions with a professional photographer, in which participants directed the content and quality of photographs documenting their experiences with disability, chronic pain and/or chronic illness. Four themes emerged from the images and writing: unfettered anger, challenging expectations, duality of reality, and resistance/resilience. Social workers can use these findings and arts-based methodology to help build community among marginalized groups.