Explainer: Reflexivity & Triangulation
Two critical tools to help manage subjectivity in your research.
By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | January 2025

Qualitative research has a unique strength: its ability to explore the subjective, nuanced side of human experiences. However, this strength also presents a significant challenge – subjectivity and bias. As researchers, our own perspectives can unintentionally creep into the research process, influencing the data and its interpretation.
Thankfully, there are effective ways to address this. In this post, we’ll explore two essential techniques for managing subjectivity in qualitative research: reflexivity and triangulation. Let’s dive in.
The Subjectivity Challenge
Before we jump into the techniques, let’s briefly revisit the issue at hand.
Qualitative research is inherently subjective because it deals with human perspectives, emotions, and experiences. This is part of what makes it so powerful – it helps us understand the “softer side” of our world. But, this also means that researchers’ biases, assumptions, and values can unintentionally influence the research process.
To manage this, we need strategies that enhance the credibility of our findings. That’s where reflexivity and triangulation come in.
What is reflexivity?
Reflexivity is about critically examining your role as the researcher in the study, throughout the entire research process. It requires you to reflect on how your own biases, values, and assumptions might influence the research – from the questions you ask to how you interpret the data.
As researchers, we’re not just passive observers. We interact with the world we’re studying, which means we inevitably influence the research process. Reflexivity encourages us to acknowledge and scrutinise this influence, helping to minimise bias and increase the trustworthiness of our findings.
So, how do you actually practise reflexivity?
A simple but powerful way to practise reflexivity is by keeping a research journal throughout your study. In practical terms, this would involve you recording your thoughts and assumptions at each stage. You’d then reflect on how your perspectives and biases might shape the research and impact your findings.
Practical Example
Let’s say you’re studying workplace dynamics and notice you’re interpreting participants’ statements through your own beliefs about leadership. Journaling helps you identify this bias, giving you the opportunity to adjust your approach and interpret the data more objectively.
While reflexivity won’t eliminate every possible bias, it will go a long way in helping you become more aware of your influence as a researcher and minimise its impact on your findings.
What is triangulation?
Triangulation is another essential tool for addressing subjectivity. This technique involves using multiple methods, data sources, theories, or even researchers to study the same phenomenon.
The idea is simple: by approaching your research from different angles, you reduce the impact of individual bias, achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the topic and enhance the accuracy of your results.
There are four main types of triangulation, each offering a unique way to enhance credibility:
Data Triangulation
This involves using different sources of data within the same study. For example:
- Collecting data at different times
- Gathering data from diverse groups of participants
- Conducting research in different locations
By doing this, you can see whether findings hold true across various contexts
Methodological Triangulation
Here, you use multiple data collection or analysis methods to explore your research question. For example, you might combine different types of interviews, observations and/or document analysis in a single study. Naturally, each method has strengths and weaknesses, and combining them allows you to create a fuller picture.
I didn’t know if I was good enough.
See how Kelsee went from lost and confused to conquering her PhD.Investigator Triangulation
In this approach, multiple researchers are involved in the study. Each researcher collects or analyses data, bringing different perspectives to the table and increasing reflexivity among researchers. This reduces the risk of individual bias and provides a more balanced interpretation.
Theoretical Triangulation
Theoretical triangulation involves applying multiple theories or frameworks to interpret your data. For example, if you’re studying organisational culture, you might use both social identity theory and systems theory to gain a broader understanding of the dynamics at play.
While each type of triangulation is valuable on its own, combining them can significantly enhance the credibility of your findings. For example, you could use data triangulation alongside methodological triangulation to validate your findings across both data sources and methods.

Why this matters.
Let’s take a moment to step back and reflect on why these techniques are so important.
Both reflexivity and triangulation are about recognising and managing the subjectivity inherent in qualitative research. Reflexivity helps you acknowledge your role in the process, while triangulation gives you practical ways to strengthen the credibility of your findings.
Together, they form a powerful duo in your qualitative research toolkit, helping you produce research that is not only credible but also meaningful and reliable.
Wrapping Up
To recap, managing subjectivity in qualitative research is a crucial challenge, but tools like reflexivity and triangulation can help you tackle it effectively.
- Reflexivity encourages you to reflect on your role as a researcher, helping to identify and manage biases throughout the research process.
- Triangulation strengthens your findings by incorporating multiple methods, data sources, theories, or researchers.
Of course, neither technique can eliminate subjectivity entirely, but using them thoughtfully can significantly enhance the trustworthiness of your research.
You Might Also Like:

Qualitative Research Basics: The 20,000-Foot View
New to qualitative? Learn about the four key phases of the qualitative research process: data collection, coding, analysis, and writing.

How To Choose The Right Qualitative Analysis Method
Not sure which qualitative analysis method to use? Learn how to choose the right method for your specific research project.

Trustworthiness In Qualitative Research
Learn about the four pillars of trustworthiness in qualitative research: credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability.

How To Choose A Tutor For Your Dissertation
Hiring the right tutor for your dissertation or thesis can make the difference between passing and failing. Here’s what you need to consider.

Writing A Dissertation While Working: A How-To Guide
Struggling to balance your dissertation with a full-time job and family? Learn practical strategies to achieve success.
0 Comments