Reflexivity in social research refers to the process of self-awareness and critical examination of the researcher’s own biases, assumptions, and influence on the research process and its findings. It involves recognizing that the researcher is not an objective observer but an integral part of the research context.
Reflexivity can be divided into two main types: Personal and Epidemiological

Reflexivity is a cornerstone of rigorous social research. It’s not just about introspection; it’s about actively engaging with the research process to ensure validity and trustworthiness.
Personal Reflexivity:

• Unpacking Subjectivity: Researchers are encouraged to delve into their own backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs, recognizing how these factors might shape their research questions, data collection methods, and interpretations. For example, a researcher studying gender inequality might bring their own experiences with gender bias to the research, potentially influencing their data collection and analysis.
• Positionality Statement: Many researchers include a positionality statement in their research papers, outlining their personal and social identities and how these might have shaped the research.
• Researcher as Instrument: Qualitative research often involves close interaction between the researcher and participants. Personal reflexivity helps researchers understand how their presence and interactions might influence the data they collect.
  Epistemological Reflexivity:
• Challenging Assumptions: Researchers critically examine the theoretical frameworks and methodological choices they make. This involves questioning the underlying assumptions of their research design and data analysis techniques. For example, a researcher using a particular qualitative method might question the method’s limitations and potential biases.
• Theoretical Frameworks: Researchers explore how different theoretical frameworks might shape their understanding of the research topic and influence their interpretations.
• Knowledge Construction: Epistemological reflexivity involves acknowledging that knowledge is not objective but socially constructed. Researchers reflect on how their own perspectives and the broader social context contribute to the construction of knowledge.
  Benefits of Reflexivity:
• Increased Validity: By acknowledging and addressing their own biases, researchers can produce more credible and trustworthy research findings.
• Enhanced Rigor: Reflexivity enhances the rigor of qualitative research by making the research process more transparent and accountable.
• Improved Interpretation: By critically examining their own perspectives, researchers can develop more nuanced and insightful interpretations of their data.
• Ethical Considerations: Reflexivity promotes ethical research practices by encouraging researchers to be mindful of the power dynamics between themselves and participants.
  Examples of Reflexivity in Practice:
• Field Notes: Researchers often keep detailed field notes during data collection, reflecting on their own experiences and interactions with participants.
• Member Checks: Researchers might share their preliminary findings with participants to get their feedback and ensure that their interpretations are accurate.
• Peer Review: Engaging in peer review processes can help researchers critically examine their work and receive feedback from colleagues.
  In conclusion, reflexivity is an ongoing process that requires continuous self-awareness and critical engagement throughout the research process. By embracing reflexivity, researchers can produce more insightful, trustworthy, and ethical research that contributes meaningfully to our understanding of the social world.