Ahmed, Dunya Ahmed Abdullah, 1976-, Lewando Hundt, Gillian and Blackburn, Clare, 1957-. (2010) Issues of gender, reflexivity and positionality in the field of disability : researching visual impairment in an Arab society. Qualitative Social Work, Vol. 10 (No. 4). pp. 467-484. ISSN 1473-3250

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Abstract

This article examines how the social and cultural context influence the way in which field research methods are utilized. Research methods need to be modified to meet the sensibilities and sensitivities of particular social groups and settings. Through a reflexive analysis of a research study on the lives of visually impaired young people and adults in Bahrain, this article discusses how gender, religion and culture need to be taken account of. It also discusses how the research process needed to take account of the participants’ disabilities. It examines the issues of research access, informed consent, researcher’s dress, confidentiality, research location, and time. It highlights how the gender of the researcher was constraining in some gender segregated educational settings in a Muslim society. The article engages with the researcher’s positionality through reflexive discussion.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > School of Health and Social Studies
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	People with visual disabilities -- Research -- Bahrain, Qualitative research -- Bahrain, Arabs -- Research
Journal or Publication Title:	Qualitative Social Work
Publisher:	Sage Publications Ltd.
ISSN:	1473-3250
Date:	22 November 2010
Volume:	Vol. 10
Number:	No. 4
Page Range:	pp. 467-484
Identification Number:	10.1177/1473325010370188
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access
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URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/3835

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