Reflexivity in Qualitative Research Approaches: Uncovering multiple layers

Laliberte-Rudman (2013) challenged us to view research as a moral and political responsibility full of challenging power relations that need to be explored and explicit. Thus, it is imperative for us as researchers and... [ view full abstract ]

Laliberte-Rudman (2013) challenged us to view research as a moral and political responsibility full of challenging power relations that need to be explored and explicit. Thus, it is imperative for us as researchers and practitioners to understand and reflect on the multiples lenses in which we see the world. Too often views of illness, race/ethnicity, social economic class gender, and religion are shaped within a cultural narrative that is full of myth, misinformation and bias. Unknowingly, we often buy into this cultural narrative without full appreciation of how this marginalizes those we are treating as our clients or the focus of our research. Current beliefs regarding qualitative methods underscore that discourse is varied and narratives are unique to individuals, as well as groups, and there is not general claim to authoritative knowledge (Denzin & Lincoln, 2013). This presentation will discuss the importance of reflexivity in sound qualitative research, the need for deep reflection in situating oneself within a clinical practice or research setting. Examples from the presenter's research and clinical experiences will be used to illustrate best practice. Participants will have the opportunity for reflection on their own socio-cultural lenses.