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Approaches to Post-colonial Research

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Methodologies in Peace Psychology

Part of the book series: Peace Psychology Book Series ((PPBS,volume 26))

Abstract

In this chapter, I consider the development of post-colonial research in psychology and its potential to find new insights while remediating some of the flaws of earlier “colonial” research. I begin with a discussion of ethnocentricity because it is fundamental to much conventional social science, although possibly subconscious and based on pragmatism. I then examine earlier and current “ethnocentric psychology” research and discuss some of the negative potentials of this approach in cross-cultural contexts. The chapter then moves to consider arguments for a research agenda that recognizes the importance of culture and context in human behaviour, before embracing the call for a post-colonial approach to research that focuses on previously and currently oppressed minority groups. Research with indigenous people in Australia, other minority groups in Australia, and across national borders is then considered in the post-colonial context. Throughout these sections, the challenges for researchers are addressed.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    Relational ontology concerns relations with people based on an I/We relationship. Relational epistemology refers to knowledge that emanates from the experiences and culture of the people. Relational axiology is concerned with ethics based on the respect, reciprocity, and responsibility to the other, and with the rights of the researched.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia

    David Mellor

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  1. David Mellor
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Correspondence to David Mellor .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia

    Diane Bretherton

  2. Victoria University, Melbournne, Victoria, Australia

    Siew Fang Law

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Mellor, D. (2015). Approaches to Post-colonial Research. In: Bretherton, D., Law, S. (eds) Methodologies in Peace Psychology. Peace Psychology Book Series, vol 26. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18395-4_9

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