From authority to everyday realities: a research note on epistemic justice in research with divorcing individuals

While divorce is becoming increasingly common worldwide, discussion of research methods that enhance engagement with divorced and divorcing individuals remains scarce. Guided by values of cultural humility and social justice, we sought to centre the research participants’ perspectives in both research methods and outcomes. It is an attempt to move away from extractive research practices in data collection. We found that Shamsul’s concept of ‘authority-defined’ and every-defined” realities, together with the team’s collective synergy, provided valuable guidance in shaping and contextualising the initiative. Yet, while the pursuit of social justice lies at the heart of research, it concurrently created a dilemma for the researchers to navigate ethical values and practical demands of research. This research note aims to disseminate the research reflection and methods while engaging with divorcing individuals in research. It outlines the study’s background, the values that underpinned the research, the data-collection methods, and reflection.