ASSUMED AND PRESUMED IDENTITIES - PROBLEMS OF SELF-PRESENTATION IN-FIELD RESEARCH

Understanding how qualitative researchers utilize and manage identitie s in the conduct of field research is a critical, yet underdeveloped, field of inquiry. This article explores the ways that qualitative rese archers can facilitate their work through management of their presente d identities. Central issues of establishing rapport and gaining trust , especially with stigmatized social groups, are examined in light of the authors' experiences. Drawing upon a diverse range of fieldwork ex periences, this article addresses confronting erroneous assumptions ab out researchers' identities, managing multiple identities, the difficu lties of competing field and professional identities, and the stresses that may arise from managing the politics of stigmas. Drawn together, these issues are presented as problematic, yet manageable and constru ctive influences on the conduct of field research.