Using Mandala theory to explore a successful research relationship

Using Mandala theory to explore a successful research relationship

Individuation was the central concept of Jung’s (1965) analytical psychology, understood as the process of integrating the conscious with the unconscious while still maintaining conscious autonomy. Jung believed that the use of mandalas – concentric circles – had significant psychological and spiritual dimensions. Mandala Theory provides a means for centring or for inner reconciliation, bringing the often unconscious into the conscious. It is a means of examining one’s conceptions at a particular point in time. In more recent times, notions of presence and space have been used to theorise the coupling of perception and action within particular contexts.

In this chapter, circles of collaboration – based on an interpretation of Armstrong’s (2003) The circles (henceforth called ‘the circles’) – are used as a means of recognising constraints and enablers in the construction of a research community. Through a focused conversation, two researchers reflect on their established research relationship and how this might inform collaborative research activities more broadly. Beyond achieving above average research outputs, this exercise made it apparent that strength is recognised where the initial respect for the individual instigates a broadening social network. Success is perceptible when each member sees her/himself as part of the sum of the whole.

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