Using reproductive justice as a theoretical lens in qualitative research in psychology

Abstract

Reproductive Justice has become somewhat of a buzzword, inspiring qualitative research on a range of sexual and reproductive issues. However, uptake in psychology has been somewhat slow, in part due to the absence of well-defined methodology and rigorous methods for applying a Reproductive Justice framework. Psychology research claiming a Reproductive Justice approach often lacks specificity regarding its underlying theoretical assumptions and how the chosen methodology enables Reproductive Justice analysis. Failing to engage with the theoretical foundations of Reproductive Justice or explicate how these inform one’s work can lead to underdeveloped application, deviation from the central principles, and misappropriation of Reproductive Justice Theory, thus failing to realise its radical potential. Accordingly, focusing on the application of Reproductive Justice in qualitative psychology research, I discuss three core theoretical antecedents of Reproductive Justice and present three corresponding approaches to application, illustrated with examples. The objective is to offer concrete analytical strategies for applying Reproductive Justice theory and to stimulate further thinking and discussion regarding how the theory might be fruitfully and rigorously used in qualitative research in psychology.