Positionality statement

A positionality statement, also called reflexivity statement, is a statement whereby a person, such as a researcher or teacher, describes, lists and reflects on their group identities.[1][2][3] It has become common in social sciences,[1][2] where researchers working towards higher degrees might be required to identify and articulate their positionality.[4]

The concept is based on the belief that "a researcher’s identity and positionality can influence all aspects of research, including the research question, study design, data collection and data analysis".[3] Positionality statements therefore act as a "disclosure of how an author's racial, gender, class, or other self-identifications, experiences, and privileges" might influence research methods in fields such as sociology or law.[5]

The use of positionality statements has been criticized on various grounds.[6] Sociologist Jukka Savolainen of Wayne State University has criticized the use of positionality statements as "a sneaky way to introduce identity politics within actual scholarship" and that "the real purpose of these frequently cringeworthy statements is to signal the authors' adherence to 'social justice' ideology and loyalties to selected identity groups".[7]