Act, scene, agency: The drama of medical imaging

Abstract 

This paper investigates the use of a novel research paradigm in order to describe practice and behaviour within the context of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) departments. Using a thematic analysis of patient and radiographer transcripts, a social model of the interactions that can occur is constructed from a theatrical perspective. A review of the social scientific literature was undertaken to identify the main concepts associated with this paradigm.

Results

Radiographers and patients fitted into the roles and categories, as described by the original philosophers. Behaviour and ritual were seen to be markedly different in the presence of the patient as opposed to being in the control room. The deliberate ‘acting out' of roles was also revealed in order to maintain self-identity and professional image. Patients provided an insightful account of their experiences and demonstrated some sophisticated coping strategies during the scanning procedure.

Conclusion

The use of this alternative qualitative method revealed some very interesting, complex rituals and behaviour patterns amongst the sample of radiographers and their patients.

Keywords: Behaviour, Dramaturgy, Perceptions, Qualitative, Space analysis, MRI