Insider/outsider dynamics: a reflexive thematic analysis of reflexivity/positionality in the ‘qualitative research in psychology’ journal

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ABSTRACT This study examines the concept of reflexivity/positionality using secondary data, specifically all articles published in the ‘Qualitative Research in Psychology’ journal up to and including 2023. A Reflexive Thematic Analysis was conducted on all reflexivity/positionality statements to investigate how they were used in the journal, how researchers articulate their positionality and manage the complexities of social identities within the research process, and the dynamics between researchers and participants. Three main themes were developed: (a) background reflexivity, utilising previous literature; (b) self-identification, detailing the researchers’ identities; and (c) navigating insider-outsider dynamics, elaborating on their relationship with participants. These findings show the varied ways researchers express reflexivity in published work and point to a growing tendency to integrate reflexivity as part of methodological practice. We argue that by engaging in these practices, researchers can foster a more nuanced and dynamic understanding of reflexivity in qualitative research, thereby enhancing the credibility and depth of their analyses.