TITLE:
Gender Bias and Researcher Positionality on Interview Access and Data Quality: The Ghanaian Experience
AUTHORS:
Sarah Ayikai Okine
KEYWORDS:
Gender Bias, Gender Discrimination, Gender Equality, Knowledge Production, Qualitative Research, Research Inclusivity
JOURNAL NAME:
Sociology Mind,
Vol.16 No.4,
September
30,
2026
ABSTRACT: Gender bias remains a persistent social challenge affecting representation, participation, and knowledge production in research environments, especially in developing nations. This study investigates how gender bias affects access to scientific research interviews and the quality of data in Ghana. Drawing on Feminist Standpoint Theory, Social Role Theory, and Feminist Methodology Theory, the analysis shows that gender-shaped social positions influence the generation and interpretation of knowledge. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants at five Ghanaian universities to capture diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis identified recurring experiences and patterns of gender bias in research practices. Findings reveal that gender discrimination affects access to research opportunities, shapes participants’ responses, and influences the inclusiveness of research outcomes. Interviewees reported barriers to leadership positions within research teams. They also noted that participants’ willingness to share information, influenced by gender stereotypes, contributes to marginalization. Further analysis shows that women’s perspectives are frequently marginalized in male-dominated research settings. Addressing gender discrimination is essential to ensure comprehensive and equitable access to interviews and high-quality data and to address the existing gaps. The study recommends capacity-building initiatives, gender-responsive policies, and institutional frameworks to promote equal participation and inclusivity in knowledge production. This research is crucial for stakeholders to develop national policies to address marginalization.