Assessing emotional and social health using photographs: An innovative research method for rural studies and its applicability in a care-farming program for youth. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Norwood, Michael Francis; Lakhani, Ali; Maujean, Annick; Downes, Martin; Fullagar, Simone; McIntyre, Michelle; Byrne, Jason; Stewart, Anna; Barber, Bonnie L.; Kendall, Elizabeth
• Is Part Of: Evaluation and program planning. Volume 77(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Rural health services -- Research design -- Equine-assisted psychotherapy -- Horticultural therapy -- Bonding -- Human-pet -- Community-based participatory research -- Photograph analysis; Health planning -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2019.101707
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-7189

Abstract

Highlights: A method to analyse photographic diaries is proposed and then tested. Method recommended for retrospective analysis or as adjunct to qualitative measures. Method demonstrated positive effects of a care-farming program for young-people. Gardening is a positive and engaging program for young people. Equine activities require time before young people display positive engagement. Abstract: A framework for assessing photographs for the emotional and social health of young people (SHAPE) is described and tested, within the context of a rural program. Two independent raters assessed the photographs of participants. To assess inter-rater reliability, Cohen' K and Kendall's W were calculated. The two reviewers' assessments of photographs were in agreement. The assessment of emotional/behavioural display showed 82% agreement. Agreement between reviewers' judgements of proxemics ( W = .866), interaction ( W = .722), engagement ( W = .932) and overall impression ( W = .804) were all significant ( p < .005). The method yielded results indicating that participants found gardening immediately engaging but their approach to equines exhibited a change from fascination to confidence during the program. The visual-diary method is a useful and sensitive method for research: where resources are limited; to complement traditional measures; for use with people who lack appropriate verbal communication or literacy skills to complete questionnaires; young children; other underrepresented groups.