Developing youth capacity for community-based research: the Sarasota County demonstration project

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Youth Engagement in Research

Background:

• Youth involvement in health promotion is established, but active participation in research planning and design is uncommon.
• Few studies detail the process and outcomes of youth-led data collection initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the process and outcomes of a youth-directed data collection initiative.
• To assess the capabilities and confidence of youth researchers in conducting qualitative research.

Main Methods:

• Eleven youth researchers were trained to collect data.
• Youth researchers conducted 112 in-depth interviews and 22 focus groups with 206 peers (5th-12th grade).
• Staff evaluated the youth researchers' effectiveness in moderating focus groups.

Main Results:

• Youth researchers reported confidence in their ability to conduct interviews and focus groups.
• Staff ratings indicated that youth researchers were successful in moderating focus groups.
• The initiative successfully gathered qualitative data through youth-led efforts.

Conclusions:

• Youth can be effectively trained and empowered to lead qualitative data collection in health promotion research.
• Youth-directed research initiatives demonstrate feasibility and success in engaging young people in research processes.
• This model offers a valuable approach for enhancing youth participation and relevance in health research.