Fusing horizons: exploring qualitative research and psychotherapeutic applications of social constructionism

Social constructionist theory, particularly the idea of a 'not-knowing' stance, addresses the methodological concern of validity. Also, because a 'not-knowing' stance entails a levelling of the hierarchy and minimising of the power differential between researcher and participant, there is also the potential for turning the research process into a freeing experience for both the researcher and participant. (Original abstract)