Reflexivity, Recursion and Relationality in Organisational Research Processes

Hibbert, P., MacIntosh, R. and Coupland, C. (2010) Reflexivity, Recursion and Relationality in Organisational Research Processes. Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal, 5(1), pp. 47-62. (doi: 10.1108/17465641011042026)

Abstract

Purpose – The paper seeks to support a better understanding of the types (or processes) of reflexivity which may be involved in the practice of organizational research, and the implications of reflexive practice for organizational researchers. <p></p> Design/methodology/approach – A characterization of reflexivity as a process is developed from extant research, in four steps. First, the principal dimensions of reflexivity – reflection and recursion – are identified and delineated. Second, recursion is shown to have two modes, active and passive. Third, reflection is shown to have both closed, self-guided and open, relational modes. Fourth, through integrating the detailed characterizations of each of the dimensions, different types of reflexivity are identified and defined. <p></p> Findings – The paper shows how different types of reflexivity may be experienced sequentially, as a progressive process, by organizational researchers. Implications for research practice are derived from a consideration of this process. <p></p> Originality/value – The paper develops a novel conceptualization of reflexivity as a process with individual and relational aspects. This conceptualization supports important insights for the conduct and legitimation of reflexive research.<p></p>

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This article is (c) Emerald Group Publishing and permission has been granted for this version to appear here (http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/17465641011042026). Emerald does not grant permission for this article to be further copied/distributed or hosted elsewhere without the express permission from Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: MacIntosh, Professor Robert
• Authors: Hibbert, P., MacIntosh, R., and Coupland, C.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
• Research Group: Strategy
• Journal Name: Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal
• Journal Abbr.: QROM
• Publisher: Emerald
• ISSN: 1746-5648
• Published Online: 01 January 2010
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2010 Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
• First Published: First published in Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal 5(1):47-62
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher