Critical participatory action research: Methods and praxis for intersectional knowledge production

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Justice Research
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Builds on the "qualitative turn" in Counseling Psychology.
• Introduces Critical Participatory Action Research (CPAR) as an intersectional approach.
• Highlights epistemological commitments of CPAR.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce and reflect on CPAR as an approach to knowledge production.
• Explore the dynamics and importance of participation in CPAR.
• Demonstrate CPAR through a case study with LGBTQIA+ youth.

Main Methods:

• Review of CPAR origins and epistemological commitments.
• Exploration of CPAR phases: team building, design, methods, sampling, analysis, dissemination.
• Case study: "What's Your Issue?" participatory survey with LGBTQIA+ youth.

Main Results:

• Participation is crucial for social justice research.
• "No research on us, without us" is scientifically and ethically valid.
• Mixed methods research with LGBTQIA+ youth opens new horizons.

Conclusions:

• CPAR is a vital approach for psychologists engaged in social justice.
• Community-centered research is essential for ethical and impactful outcomes.
• CPAR facilitates theory, methods, and action for marginalized communities.