How to conduct culturally sensitive and ethically sound research when studying sensitive topics in non-WEIRD contexts

Salanga, M. G. C., Evangelista, Z. M. and Lido, C. M. (2024) How to conduct culturally sensitive and ethically sound research when studying sensitive topics in non-WEIRD contexts. In: CohenMiller, A. (ed.) Sage Research Methods: Diversifying and Decolonizing Research. SAGE Publications Ltd. ISBN 9781529691252 (doi: 10.4135/9781529691252)

Abstract

This How-to Guide offers action points for researchers to critically reflect on in order to examine how their identities and roles impact research processes. It advocates for more inclusive research practices by encouraging researchers to think thoroughly about socioeconomic inequalities, power dynamics, and language-related issues. Such intersectional issues become particularly salient when conducting research with participants demographically different from us, and/or in non-WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) contexts. The first two authors are Philippine-born academics; one is a tenured, mid-career academic based in the Philippines, and the other is an early career researcher based in the UK; both are experienced in broad international collaborations, using largely mixed methodologies, in cultural, social, and personality psychology topics. The third author is from North America, working long-term in UK academia on topics of stereotyping, prejudice, and adult learning inclusion. Drawing on our collective experience, we provide research examples and practical suggestions that researchers may find useful for engaging in critical reflexivity and developing more inclusive research designs, and data collection and analyses processes.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Evangelista, Dr Zyra and Lido, Professor Catherine
• Authors: Salanga, M. G. C., Evangelista, Z. M., and Lido, C. M.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education; College of Social Sciences > School of Education > People, Place & Social Change
• Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
• ISBN: 9781529691252
• Published Online: 21 March 2024