The field of global health research is increasingly focusing on gender equity and the mitigation of violence against women and girls, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, traditional Westernized approaches to studying gender-based sexual violence (GBSV) often fall short when applied in different cultural contexts. A recent study conducted in Liberia in 2018 offers valuable insights into how researchers can adapt their methodologies to be more culturally sensitive and contextually relevant.
The Importance of Culturally Sensitive Research
Traditional Westernized rape surveys often use language and concepts that may not translate well across different cultural settings. This can lead to misrepresentative data and potentially harm participants who may find certain questions invasive or offensive. The 2018 Liberian study highlights the need for researchers to collaborate authentically with local experts to adapt their strategies to be culturally appropriate.
Key Findings from the 2018 Liberian Study
- Avoiding Graphic Language: The study emphasized the importance of avoiding obtrusively graphic language or labels that are prevalent in Western studies. Instead, it focused on using language that is more familiar and less triggering for participants.
- Collaborating with Local Experts: Authentic collaboration with African experts was crucial in adapting research strategies to be culturally appropriate and contextually relevant. This collaboration helped ensure that the research was conducted ethically and yielded quality data.
- Respectful Interactions: The study prioritized creating respectfully transparent interactions with respondents and communities. This approach helped improve participant experience and reduced attrition rates.
Implementing Best Practices for Ethical Research
The lessons learned from the 2018 Liberian study offer a roadmap for practitioners aiming to conduct ethical research in similar settings. Here are some best practices that researchers can implement:
1. Cross-National Expert Partnerships
Collaborating with national-level academics, government agencies, practitioners, and even research participants can diversify interpretation and knowledge building. It also empowers local voices and promotes sustainable change beyond simple peer-reviewed publishing.
2. Validating Language Selection
The study demonstrated the importance of using legal definitions of terms like 'statutory rape' while considering the cultural context. Researchers should consult national experts on how indigenous populations define such terms to ensure clarity and relevance.
3. Modifying Survey Questions
Avoiding direct questions using words like "rape" can help protect participants from psychological trauma. Instead, researchers should focus on deducing legal parameters through sensitive questioning techniques.
4. Community Awareness and Approval Processes
Gaining local buy-in through community leaders before data collection can improve trust and transparency. This approach respects traditional practices and helps ensure that participants feel informed and comfortable.
5. Triple Informed Consent Procedure
A thorough informed consent process that includes multiple phases ensures that participants are comfortable throughout the survey experience. It also provides instructions for withdrawing responses if desired.
Conclusion
The 2018 Liberian study offers valuable insights into how researchers can adapt their methodologies to be more culturally sensitive and ethically sound when studying sensitive topics like GBSV in West African settings. By implementing these best practices, practitioners can improve data quality and ensure a more respectful participant experience.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Conducting Ethical Field Research on Rape in West African Settings: Case Study of 2018 Liberian Field Survey.
