Summary
This paper explores the concept of ‘insider’ and ‘outsider’ and the challenges involved
in conducting research when the researcher finds themself living the phenomenon under
study. Recent literature has been drawn on to explain the context of the ‘insider’
and ‘outsider’ in regard to the stance of the researcher. This is followed by an overview
of the personal experiences of the author. The advantages and disadvantages of being
an insider within the context of the phenomenon of study are discussed along with
the challenges and implications for a researcher ‘living their PhD research’.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 05, 2012
Accepted:
March 4,
2012
Received in revised form:
February 27,
2012
Received:
September 2,
2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.