Importance Of Translocational Positionality Theory

Literature Review – Theoretical Approaches
The proposed research adopts translocational positionality as a theoretical framework to examine the versatility of multi-cultural individuals, especially in an ethnoculturally diverse setting, and their care seeking behaviour in the use of CAM. Translocational positionality as a theoretical concept is conceived as a “placement within a set of relations and practices that implicate identification and performativity or action” (Anthias, 2002b p.501). Through its emphasis on social position (the outcome of social actions, practices, and meanings) and social positioning (the process of practices, actions, and purpose within a social context), the theory offers an immediate concept between objectivism …show more content…
However, the key distinction is that the former recognises the importance of context, the temporality of locales and the contradictory processes that arise from the multi-positions one occupies in society, in discusses the relationship between structures and agency (Anthias, 2008; Anthias, 2002a). In light of this, Anthias (2001) asserts that identity markers such as culture, origin and language, may function as resources used by the individual or a group contextually or situationally. Thus, adopting a translocational positionality line of thought and reasoning, the proposed research seeks to understand the context and the situation in which Canada’s ethnocultural groups or people, such as Canadian residents of Sub-Sahara African origin, use available social resources (social structures both in Canada and in their country of origin), and their behaviour, motivations and rationale (agency) in their choice of CAM therapies for their health care needs. The theoretical framework will enable this proposed study to understand the process of constructing social identity and a sense of belonging, in the choice and use of alternative medical knowledge or remedies. It will thus enhance our understanding how motivations, factors and social mechanisms that lead an individual to embrace their ethnocultural identity in seeking treatment in one context and dropping such identity in another. Translocational positionality becomes helpful in situating the complex interplay of the structures that govern an individual’s behaviour and his/her agency within different national and socio-cultural contexts (Anthias,