ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the acceptance of the idea that reality was constructed in the process of psychological inquiry rather than existing out there to be approximated through scientific methods, brought a major shift in the entire approach to qualitative research. Reflexivity is about a researcher's being aware of the influence of his/her background, attitude and perspectives on the research. It explains the meaning-making exercise asks a researcher to be aware of the 'purpose' or nature of human communication and to develop a 'dialogic partnership' with the participants that allows for a co-construction rather than a depiction of human realities. The book discusses the 'Fairness' and 'ontological authenticity' overlaps with the criterion of credibility. 'Catalytic authenticity' is the extent to which the research provides stimulation to the research participants towards some progressive action.
