Qualitatively Driven Mixed Methods Research in the Caribbean Context: Beyond Western Paradigms

The diverse culture, identities, and practices across the Caribbean provide rich insight into the contextual nature of “knowing” and “being” within the region. While this diversity is rooted in the shared colonial history, it transcends to embrace Indigenous strengths and ways from the region. These qualities are essential in defining how research should be conducted with Caribbean people and communities. Traditional mixed methods approaches have evolved to include Indigenous methodologies but remain inadequately adapted for Caribbean-specific research contexts. This paper advocates for a qualitatively driven mixed methods approach that is culturally responsive to the Caribbean context and accounts for the region’s colonial legacy, decolonization efforts, and defining qualities, such as spirituality. Key methodological tenets include researcher positionality and cultural responsiveness.