Positionality statements: Intersectional considerations for rehabilitation psychology

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Rehabilitation Psychology
• Academic Publishing

Background:

• Positionality statements are increasingly common in academic journals.
• These statements acknowledge authors' identities and lived experiences, offering context for their work.
• Uniform adoption of positionality statements may pose risks to editors and staff.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the benefits and challenges of positionality statements.
• Focus on the context and principles of rehabilitation psychology.
• Examine the implications for researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on positionality statements and disclosure.
• Incorporation of experiences from researchers in marginalized/minoritized groups.
• Analysis of potential benefits and negative consequences.

Main Results:

• Potential benefits include recognizing insider perspectives and biases.
• Potential negative consequences involve forced disclosure and minimization of intersectional identities.
• Authors' dynamic identities and developmental stages may be overlooked.

Conclusions:

• Positionality statements present complex challenges in rehabilitation psychology.
• Authors should retain the autonomy to decide on including positionality statements.
• Consideration of diverse backgrounds and potential impacts is crucial.