Reflection: My Research Paradigm and How this would Influence my Future Research

Critical Realism

Choosing a critical realism paradigm for research reflects a commitment to understanding phenomena beyond surface-level observations and acknowledging the underlying structures and mechanisms that shape them. a critical realism paradigm takes the position that the world consists of not only observable phenomena but also "underlying causal mechanisms" that may not always be directly visible. It emphasizes the importance of exploring these deeper structures to comprehend the complexity of social phenomena fully. After contemplation I have realised that this paradigm aligns with my world view: That meaningful insights sits between relationships of power and social structures, and the complexity of everyday life.

I believe my alignment with a critical realism paradigm will influence my research approach in several ways. Rather than describing observable patterns or phenomena, I seek to dive deeper into understanding the underlying causal mechanisms that produce them. This entails employing methods that allow for the exploration of hidden structures and mechanisms, such as mixed methods approaches that combine qualitative and quantitative techniques. Additionally, this paradigm will encourage the exploration of context and the historical, social, and cultural factors that shape the phenomena under investigation. By embracing critical realism, my research will aim not only to describe but also to explain and understand the underlying dynamics that shape health-related challenges, questions and events.

Moreover, adopting a critical realist paradigm will influence my research in terms of its implications for social change and policy. By uncovering the underlying causal mechanisms behind challenges in our health system, my research approach would aim to develop or contribute to evidence-based interventions and policies that address underlying feedback loops. This would provide more than just simplistic explanations or solutions, it would provide nuanced insights that account for the complexities of health systems.

Ultimately, my commitment to critical realism reflects a desire to conduct research that goes beyond surface-level observations, aiming instead to uncover the deeper truths that shape our understanding of the social world.