What does "going native" refer to in observational research?

"Going native" in observational research refers to the phenomenon where the researcher becomes overly immersed in the culture or environment of the participants they are studying, leading to excessive identification with them. This can result in a shift in perspective, where the researcher may adopt the values, beliefs, and practices of the individuals they are observing. While this can enhance understanding of the participants' experiences, it also poses challenges for maintaining objectivity and critical distance necessary for effective analysis.

This concept highlights the balance researchers must strike between engaging with their subjects to gain deeper insights and preserving the analytical perspective required to draw valid conclusions from the study. When a researcher goes native, they might lose sight of their original research goals, potentially compromising the integrity of their findings and interpretations. Understanding this tendency is crucial for researchers in ensuring their objectivity and maintaining ethical practices throughout their research process.