Introduction

Since reflexivity can be considered to be a key component ensuring quality control in qualitative research, a basic understanding of how the characteristics and knowledge of the researcher can impact on the research undertaken is of principal importance. Many use the concept of reflexivity interchangeably with related concepts, such as reflectivity and critical reflection, while others view these terms as being separate entities (D’Cruz et al., 2007). The nature of qualitative research sets the researcher as the data collection instrument. Therefore, one could reasonably argue that the researcher’s ideology, cultural background, gender, socio-economic status, and educational achievements can impact as variables during the research process. Hooks (1990) cited in Bourke (2014) notes that it is crucially important for the researcher, when carrying out their research, to realise that research involving cultural differences may lead to marginalising some of the research participants.

Bourke (2014) states that the aim of qualitative research attempts to gain an understanding of an issue through the lived experiences of participants. Eisner (1998:39) cited in Bourke (2014) asserts that “qualitative research becomes believable because of its coherence, insight, and instrument utility”.  The strength of the research is firmly based on the success of the relationship between the researcher and his/her participants. Hall (1990) adds to this concept by stating that the researcher needs to position themselves firmly in order for their message to be heard. As a consequence, positionality can be described as being at the intersection of objectivism and subjectivism.  Freire (2000:50) points out that these exists in a “dialectic relationship.”  It is worth noting that aiming to achieve objectivity might be a bridge too far, as one can never completely claim to be entirely free of subjectivity.  However, the researcher can aim to be as objective as possible, while being mindful of his/her subjectivities. This is the true nature of positionality. A researcher is required to acknowledge how he/she is as an individual, and as being fluid as they move within social groups. This essay highlights the importance of how crucial it is to pay due consideration to positionality, reflexivity, and the power relations that are integral to research processes to ensure the highest standard of ethical research. Reflecting on one’s positionality concerning a proposed research topic can facilitate a deeper level of reflexivity, which in turn enables engagement with the research process on a deeper level. This essay will begin with a brief introduction on the importance of reflexivity and positionality in the research process, followed by an outline of the use of reflexivity in qualitative data collection. The essay will then discuss the impact of reflexivity and positionality by using a case study example. The essay will end with some concluding thoughts on the importance of maintaining as objective a stance as possible in any research process.