Decolonized Research Frameworks in Conducting Qualitative Research
- No Comments
Decolonized Research Frameworks in Qualitative Research
Decolonized research frameworks are an approach to research that seek to create more equitable and inclusive relationships between institutions/researchers and communities. There are many benefits to using a decolonized research framework in qualitative research, including:
- Ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and represented in research.
- The production of knowledge that is more relevant and applicable to the needs of these communities.
- Helping organizations and institutions to create policies, interventions, and regulations that are informed by community needs.
Reproductive Justice, Critical Race Theory, and Black Feminist Thought
Black feminist thought (BFT), reproductive justice, and critical race theory (CRT) are all important frameworks for decolonized research (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Decolonized Research Frameworks
Reproductive justice is a framework that seeks to ensure that all people have the right to control their own bodies and their own reproduction. It is based on the belief that reproductive rights are human rights. CRT is a framework that examines the ways in which race and racism have shaped the American legal system. It challenges the notion of colorblindness, and it emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical and contemporary impact of racism. BFT is a theoretical framework that centers the experiences of black women and girls. It challenges the notion of a single, universal experience of womanhood, and it emphasizes the importance of intersectionality.
Decolonized research frameworks can be used to study the experiences of Black women in a variety of ways. For example, they can be used to study the experiences of Black women in academia, in the workplace, or in their communities. A study by Quamila Allen and Kimberly White-Smith used CRT to study the experiences of Black mothers in the United States. The study found that Black mothers often face racism and discrimination in their interactions with healthcare providers, schools, and other institutions. The study also found that Black mothers often have to work harder to provide for their children and to navigate the challenges of motherhood. This study provides insight into the ways in which race and racism can negatively impact the lived experiences of communities of color.
A study by Wade et al. sought to understand the best practices in health promotion programming for Black women. Through using the Black Feminist Thought framework, researchers grounded themselves in the understanding that Black women navigate racism and sexism which inherently creates a different lived experience than men. The study found that Black women desired health promotion programs tailored to their needs such as programs that were engaging, informative, holistic, accessible, and in group settings. The researchers also highlight the relevance of using Black Feminist Thought in understanding the health needs of Black women in future research.
Conclusion
Decolonized research frameworks are an important tool for organizations and institutions who want to produce knowledge that is relevant and applicable to the needs of marginalized communities. By using these frameworks, researchers can help to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and represented in research, and thus reflected in the delivery of healthcare and development of health policies.
Want to Learn More?
At Evidence to Practice, we can utilize decolonized research frameworks to center lived experiences, acknowledge the impact of intersectionality on identity, and generate community-based knowledge. Our team is skilled in the application of decolonized frameworks in conducting qualitative research. Contact us if you are interested in learning more.