A novel way to engage youth in research: evaluation of a participatory health research project by the international children's advisory network youth council. Issue 1 (31st December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tsang, Vivian W. L.; Fletcher, Sarah; Thompson, Charles; Smith, Sharon
• Is Part Of: International journal of adolescence and youth. Volume 25:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 676
• Page End: 686
• Publication Date: 2020-12-31
• Subjects: Adolescents -- participatory health research -- patient-oriented -- youth empowerment -- YPAG -- youth advisory; Adolescence -- Periodicals; Youth -- Periodicals; Adolescent psychology -- Periodicals; 305.235
• DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2020.1716817
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0267-3843

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Little is known about the impact of a participatory approach in adolescent health research and the specific benefits youth derive from such experiences. This study evaluates the benefits and limitations of involving young patients as co-researchers in the creation and execution of an international participatory health research project. Methods: Standardized feedback surveys and qualitative interviews were employed to evaluate the impact of co-researchers' personal and academic growth. Participation was determined by the percentage of youth members actively engaged (75% or more), and outcome of a completed project. Results: 16 adolescents aged 13–23 years representing 9 global academic institutions participated. Eighty-one per cent of participants reported interest in health research and 100% felt that their participation made an impact on paediatric healthcare. Discussion: The shift in roles from patient to research partner is echoed in the strong conviction of the newfound possibilities of accomplishment as a group.