Womanism and Snowball Sampling: Engaging Marginalized Populations in Holistic Research

Womanist and feminist qualitative researchers continue to identify research methods and techniques that harness the power of social networking and personal connections while engaging with marginalized populations. Many have found that the use of snowball sampling allows increased access to individuals and groups that may otherwise remain inaccessible. The purpose of this article is to discuss the use of snowball sampling techniques within womanist and feminist research. The authors offer critical reflections of the use of this sampling technique as a tool that allows researchers access to “hidden” and marginalized populations. An example of the use of snowball sampling in a doctoral research project, which looks at the experiences of Black women faculty in New Mexico’s institutions of higher education, is provided. The article concludes with recommended strategies and key considerations about the use of snowball sampling in womanist research