Researcher Positionality – A Consideration of Its Influence and Place in Qualitative Research – A New Researched Guide
The term “positionality” refers to both an individual’s perspective on the world and the stance they take in relation to a research task and its social and political context. It encompasses ontological assumptions (beliefs about the nature of social reality), epistemological assumptions (beliefs about the nature of knowledge), and assumptions about human nature and agency. These perspectives are influenced by an individual’s values and beliefs shaped by factors such as political allegiance, religious faith, gender, sexuality, historical and geographical location, ethnicity, race, social class, and status.
The concept of “positionality” in research refers to the researcher’s chosen perspective within a specific field of study, influencing how the research is conducted and its outcomes. This includes considerations about the subject under investigation, research participants, and the overall context and process. Positionality is shaped by various factors such as culture, gender, race, nationality, political views, personal history, and beliefs. It is emphasized that certain aspects, like cultural or physical attributes, may predispose individuals to specific viewpoints, but these do not necessarily dictate one’s perspectives. An example is provided where a researcher discovered an African-American member in a conservative, right-wing, racist group, challenging assumptions based on identity. The caution is given that making assumptions about someone’s knowledge or perspective based on perceived identity differences can lead to misunderstandings and hinder a fair understanding of their positionality. The reminder is given for researchers to avoid making assumptions and pigeonholing individuals based on their own perceptions.
In the realm of social and educational research, minimal attention has been given to the importance of researchers acknowledging and allowing for the impact of their own views, values, and beliefs on the research design and execution. Positionality, defined as the researcher’s situatedness and perspective, is deemed crucial and requires continuous acknowledgment and self-assessment throughout the research process. This involves explicit self-consciousness regarding one’s views and positions and how these influence the research. Positionality is not static; it evolves over time, and researchers should be aware that their values may change. Utilizing a self-assessment framework is recommended for researchers to understand and disclose their personal and professional experiences, pre-existing beliefs, motivations, and theoretical foundations. Recognizing the dynamic nature of positionality is crucial for new researchers, as it informs the development and articulation of their perspectives in the research process.
3 Primary Ways that a Researcher may Identify and Develop their Personality:
- Locating themselves about the subject. (Acknowledging personal positions that have the potential to influence the research)
- Locating themselves about the participants (Researchers individually considering how they view themselves, as well as how others view them, while at the same time acknowledging that as individuals they may not be fully aware of how they and others have constructed their identities.
- Locating themselves about the research context and process. (Acknowledging that research will necessarily be influenced by themselves and by the research context. )
- (Component) Time. New researchers should recognize that exploring their positionality and writing a positionality statement can take considerable about of time and soul searching.
All research will be influenced by the researcher and there is no completely neutral or objective knowledge.