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PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH

Sociologyindex, Sociology Books 2012

Distinguished from other research techniques in participatory research the subjects, usually oppressed or exploited groups, are fully involved in the research, from the designing of topics to the analysis of data.

While the findings of participatory research may be useful and indeed emancipatory, the process of community or neighborhood building during the carrying out of the research is of equal importance.

Research as Social Work: Participatory Research in Learning Disability 
Dorothy Atkinson, Professor of learning disability in the School of Health and Social Welfare at The Open University, British Journal of Social Work 2005 35(4):425-434
The social-work literature has already made links between social work and research, and has argued in favour of practitioner–research. This paper turns the argument around and looks at how research can come to look and feel like social work. This happens particularly, but not exclusively, in participatory research in the learning-disability field, especially in auto/biographical or life-story research, where long-term research relationships are more in evidence. Drawing on the participatory research methodology literature, and her own oral and life-history research, the author explores the areas in which research comes to emulate social-work practice. There are, of course, practical and ethical issues to be addressed and, as the author concludes, safeguards are needed to clarify roles and foster openness in research relationships. - bjsw.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/35/4/425

A Personal Position Paper on Participatory Research: Personal Quest for Living Knowledge - Marja-Liisa Swantz, United Nations University 
Qualitative Inquiry, Vol. 2, No. 1, 120-136 (1996) © 1996 SAGE Publications
This article is a personal position paper in which the author presents thoughts about participatory research as they evolved during years of search for "living knowledge." The author weaves together experiences gathered from her work in two regions of Tanzania and a personal history to make conclusions about and derive implications for participatory research. - qix.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/2/1/120

Are Academics Irrelevant? - Roles for Scholars in Participatory Research 
RANDY STOECKER, University of Toledo 
American Behavioral Scientist, Vol. 42, No. 5, 840-854 (1999) © 1999 SAGE Publications
Interest in participatory research has exploded over the past decade. Academics seem to follow three approaches in participatory research: the initiator, the consultant, and the collaborator. After discussing the approaches, this article argues that doing the research is not a goal in itself but only a means. Participatory research is actually part of a larger community change project that is dependent on four roles: "animator," community organizer, popular educator, and participatory researcher. Determining how the academic will fit in the project (as initiator, consultant, or collaborator) requires addressing three questions: What is the project trying to do? What are the academic's skills? and How much participation does the community need or want? The answers to these questions will vary according to how organized the community is. - abs.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/42/5/840

Participatory Research A Complementary Research Approach in Public Health 
Bengt Starrin1 and Per-Gunnar Svensson, Centre for Public Health Research, County Council of Vrmland S-651 82 Karlstad, Sweden 
The European Journal of Public Health 1991 1(1):29-35; doi:10.1093/eurpub/1.1.29 
The aim of this article is to describe basic feature of participatory research and to discuss its merits and drawbacks in social studies. Traditional research methods exclude persons who serve as research subjects from active involvement in all phases of a research project. Participatory research is one way to give people a chance to participate fully in the research process. This method allows non-researchers to upgrade their own knowledge and experience. Thus research and knowledge become accessible to the public and play a more significant role in prevention. - eurpub.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/1/1/29

Women shaping participatory research to their own needs 
Karen Dullea, independent researcher and counsellor 
Community Development Journal 2006 41(1):65-74; doi:10.1093/cdj/bsi041 
Participatory research should be guided by the needs and interests of those involved and what they are willing and capable of doing, at that point in time, in order to address oppressive circumstances. A deeply wounding oppression many women experience is that of male-perpetrated physical and sexual violence. Women participating in participatory research aimed at their needs may steer it in the direction of opening up a safe, emotionally supportive space where they can talk about what they have experienced. The impetus might be encouraged by facilitators who are seen as trustworthy and as seriously guided by the needs of the women involved. The focus at this point then, for these women, may not be on practical planning, even in response to male violence against women, but on the need to be listened to and believed, which, ultimately, can support a woman's ability to participate in community development activities and planning. - cdj.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/41/1/65

Can participatory research be a route to empowerment? A case study of a disadvantaged Scottish community 
Mike Titterton, Project manager and consultant for health and social welfare projects in East Europe and UK sponsored by the WHO, the EC and DFID. He is based in Edinburgh; The Vision Thing, 80 Relugas Road, Edinburgh, EH9 2LZ. Tel/fax: + 44 (0)131 667 6883
Helen Smart, Lecturer in Health Promotion, Queen Margaret University College, and formerly as coordinator of Lothian Community Health Projects Forum
Community Development Journal, doi:10.1093/cdj/bsl037 
Abstract: The growth of participatory research in recent years has been notable. This paper considers its potential for empowering disadvantaged communities and providing a route for overcoming social exclusion. Problems of definition and key challenges for undertaking participatory research are reviewed based upon work undertaken in a deprived community in Scotland. Opportunities exist for researchers and community developers together to develop participatory approaches. A principal role for researchers is in bridging the gap between service users and policy makers, funders and other service providers by working with service users to demonstrate the impact of social exclusion. The authors conclude that participatory research merits close attention as long as its difficulties are acknowledged. - cdj.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/bsl037v1

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF A PARTICIPATORY, RESEARCH-ORIENTED PROJECT: RESULTS OF A SURVEY
G. Buenavista, I. Coxhead, and K. Kim
Abstract: If project evaluation is difficult, assessing the impact of a research project -- in which the major outputs are ideas -- is very difficult, and to do so for a participatory rural development project utilizing non-formal locally-based methods of information exchange is highly problematic. In this paper we report such an attempt for a project investigation sustainable agriculture and environmental management among mainly farm households in a Philippine watershed. We present and analyze data from surveys of individuals and 'opinion leaders' at the project site. To substitute for “with project” and “without project” samples of respondents (since other sources of heterogeneity may divide these) we construct several measures of “distance” from the project and locate our sample along these measures. While hypotheses of statistical causation remain to be tested, preliminary analysis of the survey results indicates that proximity to the project is positively correlated with heightened awareness of environmental linkages and concepts, more “environment-conscious” attitudes, and a higher propensity to adopt relatively costly sustainable agriculture practices such as integrated pest management (IPM), hedgerows and contour strips. These findings emerge in spite of a relatively brief project life (less than five years) and a concentration of project activities on research rather than training or extension. Moreover, 'opinion leaders' who report the project as a primary influence on their thinking are also cited as important sources by respondents in the random sample. This finding, in an era of administrative decentralization and political devolution, suggests that the project may have indirect as well as direct means to influence individual decision-makers. We conclude that a participatory approach to research design and implementation, as followed in the project under examination, is an effective means to transfer information to and among farmers, thus reducing the subjective costs of adopting new practices. - aae.wisc.edu/sanrem-sea/ ResearchImpacts/ImpactSurveyAbstract.htm

Engaging in participatory research: some personal reflections 
R. Northway 
Journal of Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 2, No. 3, 144-149 (1998) DOI: 10.1177/146900479800200305 © 1998 SAGE Publications
The need for critical self-reflection by researchers engaging in disability research has been widely recognized. However, whilst participatory research approaches are beginning to be used with people with learning difficulties, the literature has tended to focus on the principles underpinning such approaches rather than the practical implications of using them. Therefore, this paper seeks to contribute to this area of knowledge by reflecting on the author's experience of engaging in a research project that has sought to use a participatory approach. The need for critical self- reflection is explored before reflecting on issues of participation and power sharing. Time implications and ambiguity are also explored. It is concluded that researchers have choices about the ways in which they conduct research. However, it is essential that such choices are made in a conscious and self-critical manner. - jid.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/2/3/144

Considering More Feminist Participatory Research: What's Congruency Got to Do With It? 
Patricia Maguire, Western New Mexico University 
Qualitative Inquiry, Vol. 2, No. 1, 106-118 (1996) DOI: 10.1177/107780049600200115 © 1996 SAGE Publications
The article proposes that there cannot be truly emancipatory participatory research or participatory research advocates without explicit incorporation of feminist perspectives. As part of the larger dialogue regarding taking sides through research, the author asks us to consider a more feminist participatory research. The basis of her argument relates to issues of ontological congruency. After defining feminism(s), the article briefly identifies the androcentric and incongruous aspects of participatory research. It con cludes with specific areas for discussion if we are to consider more feminist participatory research. - qix.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/2/1/106

Activist Participatory Research Among the Maya of Guatemala: Constructing Meanings from Situated Knowledge
M. Brinton Lykes, Boston College
Correspondence to: M. Brinton Lykes Boston College, Campion Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02167 lykes@bc.edu
Abstract: In this article, I analyze two separate experiences with the Maya in rural communities within Guatemala and discuss strengths and limitations of Participatory Action Research (PAR) within this context. These experiences are the context in and from which I explore my "situated otherness" within a praxis of solidarity and question dominant theoretical models for conceptualizing and responding to the effects of war on children. Further, I explore, with my Maya colleagues, alternative methodologies (including PAR) for "standing under" these realities from this position of "other." I conclude the essay with a brief discussion of selected criteria that contribute to evaluating participatory strategies in PAR and a summary of current efforts to extend this praxis from situations of ongoing violence in Guatemala to more local sites, e.g., Boston, Massachusetts. - blackwell-synergy.com

Ending Participatory Research? 
Ruth Northway, University of Glamorgan, UK 
Journal of Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 4, No. 1, 27-36 (2000) DOI: 10.1177/146900470000400102 © 2000 SAGE Publications
Traditionally, ‘ending’ research is a stage in the research process that is not widely explored. However, recently, some concerns have been expressed regarding the effects that ending participatory research may have on some people with learning disabilities. Given the importance of research which promotes their active participation it is thus important that researchers seeking to engage in such research consider carefully the challenges which may arise. In this paper, therefore, some key implications are considered and an argument is put forward that researchers should consider these implications before commencing work on participatory research projects. This means that ‘ending’ research is a stage in the research process which needs to be given much more emphasis than has previously been the case. - jid.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/4/1/27

Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Address Health Disparities 
Nina B. Wallerstein, DrPH, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, in Albuquerque, New Mexico 
Bonnie Duran, DrPH, Center for Native American Health; and Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, in Albuquerque, New Mexico 
Health Promotion Practice, Vol. 7, No. 3, 312-323 (2006) DOI: 10.1177/1524839906289376 © 2006 Society for Public Health Education
Community-based participatory research (CBPR) has emerged in the past decades as an alternative research paradigm, which integrates education and social action to improve health and reduce health disparities. More than a set of research methods, CBPR is an orientation to research that focuses on relationships between academic and community partners, with principles of colearning, mutual benefit, and long-term commitment and incorporates community theories, participation, and practices into the research efforts. As CBPR matures, tensions have become recognized that challenge the mutuality of the research relationship, including issues of power, privilege, participation, community consent, racial and/or ethnic discrimination, and the role of research in social change. This article focuses on these challenges as a dynamic and ever-changing context of the researcher-community relationship, provides examples of these paradoxes from work in tribal communities, discusses the evidence that CBPR reduces disparities, and recommends transforming the culture of academia to strengthen collaborative research relationships. - hpp.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/7/3/312

Research Methods - How to use participatory action research in primary care 
Gert JO Marincowitz, Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Limpopo Province Unit, Medical University of Southern Africa, Medunsa 0204, South Africa; E-mail: rhinorth@mweb.co.za 
Family Practice Vol. 20, No. 5, 595-600 © Oxford University Press 2003 
Objective. The aim of the article is to demonstrate the usefulness of participatory action research (PAR) in primary care. The author used PAR firstly to develop a deeper understanding of mutual participation in the doctor–patient encounter and secondly to apply this learning in a rural cross-cultural practice setting. 
Method. PAR was done with four patient groups. Four patients with terminal illnesses formed groups with their family members, neighbours and friends. Seven meetings were held with each group over a period of 6 months. The meetings were conducted in Tsonga, which is the local vernacular. All the meetings were audio-taped. The primary question for each meeting was how the group could work together to achieve the best possible health outcome for the patient. Additionally, the author, who facilitated the meetings, kept a reflective diary, including field notes over the research period. One member of each group kept a written record of each meeting. Three free attitude interviews were conducted with the author over the research period to elicit the development of his understanding about mutual participation in the doctor–patient encounter. The recorded meetings and interviews were transcribed and translated and themes subsequently identified using the transcripts. The reflective diary was analysed similarly. A model was constructed to depict the themes and their interrelatedness. The model was interpreted and conclusions were drawn. 
Results. The PAR process had a positive effect on the doctor–patient encounter. PAR greatly resembles a mutual participatory doctor–patient encounter. The research facilitator had certain basic tenets in order to facilitate participation. The patients who participated actively benefited most. Basic interviewing techniques were used to facilitate the mutual participation in PAR. 
Conclusions. PAR is very applicable in primary care. The principles of PAR such as mutual collaboration, reciprocal respect, co-learning and acting on results from the enquiry are essential in the doctor–patient relationship. Self-awareness, the ability to self-critique and reflect in a deep manner using such tools as a reflective diary are essential for nurturing the development of effective primary health care workers and consequently care structures for the patients and their families. - fampra.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/20/5/595

Community-Based Participatory Research in Practice-Based Research Networks
John M. Westfall, MD, MPH; Rebecca F. VanVorst, MSPH; Deborah S. Main, PhD; Carol Herbert, MD 
From Annals of Family Medicine
Abstract: Purpose: We wanted to describe community-based participatory research in practice-based research networks in the United States.
Methods: We surveyed all identified practice-based research networks (PBRNs) in the United States to find out whether they had a mechanism for obtaining feedback or involvement from the community of patients served by PBRN physicians. We asked open-ended questions on how they involve community members and whether they had plans for future involvement of community members and/or patients.
Results: We received 46 completed questionnaires (71% response rate). Twenty-four reported that they have some mechanism to involve community members and/ or patients in their research. No PBRN reported full participatory methods; however, several PBRNs reported active involvement by community members to generate research ideas, review research protocols, interpret results, and disseminate findings.
Conclusion: While perhaps not meeting the classical definition of CBPR, some PBRNs are involving community members and patients in their research. There is a wide spectrum of involvement by community members in PBRN research. Many PBRNs reported plans to involve community members in their research. We believe that community involvement will enhance PBRN research. - medscape.com/viewarticle/523001

Community-Based Participatory Research: Assessing the Evidence
Structured Abstract
Objectives: To systematically review the literature on health-related community-based participatory research (CBPR), which combines methods of scientific inquiry with community capacity-building strategies; CBPR aims to bridge the gap between knowledge produced through research and practices used in communities to improve health. The researchers addressed the following key questions (KQs):
What defines CBPR? 
How has CBPR been implemented to date with regard to the quality of research methodology and community involvement? 
What is the evidence that CBPR efforts have resulted in the intended outcomes? 
What criteria and processes should be used for review of CBPR in grant proposals? 
Review Methods: For KQ 1, peer-reviewed articles were chosen that synthesized the evolution of, values for, or lessons learned from collaborative research. For KQ 2 and 3, peer-reviewed CBPR studies published in the English language, conducted in the United States and Canada, and with at least one community collaborator were included. Separate abstraction forms were created for KQs 1-3. Articles were rated for quality, and to assess each study's research methods and adherence to CBPR principles of community collaboration
Results: Sixty CBPR studies were identified. Of the 30 intervention studies, 12 had been completed and evaluated. Quality ratings for these suggested stronger research scores for the experimental studies than for the others, although nonexperimental studies also showed modest effects on health outcomes. Quality ratings for community participation were strongest for recruitment/retention and intervention design, followed by development and pilot testing of measures. Steering committees or advisory boards were the main mechanisms for sharing research decisionmaking, but these did not generally develop research questions or proposals.
The number of high-quality CBPR publications has increased recently, possibly reflecting more targeted funding and special journal issues on CBPR.
Conclusions: Many CBPR studies had strong community-institution collaborations; relatively few combined this type of collaboration with solid research methods. The researchers drew on their synthesis of this literature to produce guidelines to assist funding agencies and grant applicants and reviewers in achieving the best balance of rigorous research and optimal collaboration among communities and institutions, thereby improving the quality of and funding for CBPR. - ahrq.gov/clinic/tp/cbprtp.htm

ATECAR: An Asian American Community-Based Participatory Research Model on Tobacco and Cancer Control 
Grace X. Ma, PhD, CHES, Center for Asian Health at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania., grace.ma@temple.edu 
Jamil I. Toubbeh, PhD, Center for Asian Health and Department of Public Health at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 
Xuefen Su, MPH (C), Center for Asian Health in the Department of Public Health at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 
Rosita L. Edwards, MA, Center for Asian Health in the Department of Public Health at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 
Health Promotion Practice, Vol. 5, No. 4, 382-394 (2004) DOI: 10.1177/1524839903260146 © 2004 Society for Public Health Education
In the past few decades, community-based participatory research, which underscores the indispensable role of the community in all phases of the research process, has been recognized as a viable approach to working constructively with communities to achieve mutually beneficial goals. This article presents a history of the Asian Tobacco Education, Cancer Awareness and Research’s pioneering efforts in conducting community-based participatory research among Asian Americans in the Delaware Valley region of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Information about project background, target populations, and the rationale for the conduct of community-based participatory research in American communities is provided. It also delineates the manner in which the principles of community-based participatory research were applied as guides for the development of partnership infrastructures, research programs, and the challenges and barriers that were encountered. Facilitating factors in partnership building, and implications of employing this model in this ethnically and racially diverse population, are further discussed. - hpp.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/5/4/382

Participatory Research in Learning Disability

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