Beyond the Lab—Proposing an Indigenous Psychologies Research Paradigm

ABSTRACT To align with the goal of this section, we propose an ontological turn to the psychology research paradigm that extends beyond mainstream methodology. Drawing on the existing literature of indigenous psychology (IP) and two qualitative studies from Singapore and Malaysia, we critically examine the differences of epistemology and methodology between mainstream approaches in Western psychology and the IP approach to the culturally different other. Next, we extract the research methods adopted by scientific inquiries of dang‐ki healing within certain Chinese communities and experiences of suffering within the Temiar tribal group. These methods include establishing the reciprocal relationship and fluid boundary between the investigators (observers) and investigated (observed), conducting qualitative research in a natural setting with cognitive flexibility, using fieldtrip immersion to gain insiders' worldviews and feedback on the findings. Finally, we offer a few action guidelines for future researchers conducting indigenous psychological research in the communities.