“A Consideration of Its Influence and Place in Qualitative Research” by Andrew Gary Darwin Holmes & “Social Identity Map: A Reflexivity Tool for Practicing Explicit Positionality in Critical Qualitative Research” by Danielle Jacobson & Nida Mustafa.
Both readings are so interesting to think about reflection.
I believe it is crucial for researchers to be transparent about their own identities and perspectives because research is never fully objective. While we often strive for objectivity, the reality is that all research is shaped by human experiences, identities, and biases. The way we formulate questions, interpret answers, and engage with participants is influenced by our backgrounds, making it impossible to be completely neutral.
This is why research positionality is important—it helps us reflect on our own identities and biases, making our research more honest and transparent. By acknowledging our positionality, we create a balance between ourselves as researchers and our participants, ensuring that we are aware of power dynamics and potential biases.
As insiders, researchers may find it easier to gain trust and build relationships with participants because they share a similar background or lived experience. As outsiders, researchers can bring a fresh perspective, ask “dumb” questions, and maintain curiosity—which helps ensure that the research findings are accessible and meaningful to a wider audience.
Both perspectives have their advantages and challenges, so it is important for researchers to be aware of their positionality and find a balance between building trust and maintaining critical distance. That’s why Social Identity Map is important.
Personally, I love using visual tools like MindMaps and brainstorming, as they help me organize my thoughts, visualize ideas, and solve problems. Before starting any project, I often create a MindMap to clarify my ideas.
Similarly, I find the Social Identity Map to be a valuable tool for researchers. As I mentioned earlier, research is never fully objective—we all have biases, whether we are aware of them or not. This map helps researchers reflect on their own identities, ensuring that they acknowledge personal biases and maintain transparency throughout the research process.
Using the Social Identity Map can help researchers:
• Recognize their own biases that might influence their research.
• Ensure balance in their work, avoiding one-sided perspectives.
• Increase transparency, making their positionality clear to themselves and their audience.
• Identify gaps and challenges in their research by reflecting on how their background shapes their questions and assumptions.
I believe this is a powerful self-reflection tool, allowing researchers to be more aware of their positionality and ethical responsibilities. Just like how MindMapping helps me organize my thoughts, the Social Identity Map helps researchers visualize their own identities and power relations in research.
