Conceptualizing from the Inside: Advantages, Complications, and Demands on Insider Positionality

• Published in: Qualitative report Vol. 13; no. 3; pp. 474 - 494
• Main Author: Chavez, Christina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Nova Southeastern University 01.09.2008; Nova Southeastern University, Inc
• Subjects: Analysis; Community life; Cultural Pluralism; Data Collection; Family (Sociological Unit); Family Relationship; Group identity; Indigenous Populations; Methods; Mexican Americans; Minority Groups; Qualitative Research; Research Methodology; Researcher Subject Relations; Researchers; Social aspects; Social Influences; Social Justice; Social Psychology; United States
• ISSN: 1052-0147

The debate on insider/outsider positionality has raised issues about the methodological advantages and liabilities between the two, yet no clear account exists for what insider scholars can expect when they enter the field. First, I conceptualize how insider positionality can dually benefit and disadvantage the insider. Using a partial review of insider studies, including my study of my multigenerational Mexican American family, I also present a practical discussion on specific insider advantages and complications. In conclusion, I present a new approach to training novice insider scholars that will help them mediate between insider perspective and researcher position, an approach that promises greater rigor to insider research that will serve the goals of qualitative research for social justice in minority and indigenous communities. (Contains 2 figures, 1 table and 3 footnotes.)