When Objectivity Is Out of Reach: Learnings from Conducting Research with Commercially Sexually Exploited Women

Abstract

Leveraging my personal narrative, stemming from conducting research in a personally relevant context with marginalized participants, I use standpoint theory (e.g., Harding, 2015) and a posttraumatic growth lens (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004) to provide insights about how researchers might learn and grow from a rejection of traditional objectivity in these settings. Specifically, I highlight my experiences in volunteering at, and then collecting data within, an organization which aims to improve the lives of women who have been commercially sexually exploited. By sharing my narrative, I hope to destigmatize the acknowledgement of personal connections with participants prior to, during or after data collection, particularly in contexts involving marginalization, in order to drive conversations that better address the emotional and psychological realities of completing this important but challenging work. To that end, I argue that actively addressing the limitations of objectivity under these circumstances might provide researchers with opportunities for positive scholarly growth. By allowing researchers to have honest discussions about their connections to participants and the emotions that surround their work, they may be better equipped to conduct research which benefits the field, while gaining valuable skills and insights. Recommendations for both researchers and the field of organizational sciences are provided.