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Brain Imaging Investigation of the Neural Correlates of Observing Virtual Social Interactions
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Increasing diversity in neuroimaging research: Participant-driven recommendations from a qualitative study of an
Kefan C Wu1, Sunghyun Hong2, Fernanda L Cross3
1Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
|November 14, 2024
Summary
Engaging diverse communities in neuroimaging research is crucial. Participant feedback led to nine recommendations, including diverse teams, accessibility, and long-term relationships, to improve inclusivity in brain imaging studies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging Research
- Participant Engagement
- Health Equity
Background:
- Generalizability in neuroimaging studies is limited by under-representation.
- Engaging diverse communities is essential for robust scientific findings.
- Qualitative data can inform inclusive research practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline participant-driven recommendations for incorporating under-represented populations in neuroimaging protocols.
- To identify key aspects of participant experience and areas for improvement in neuroimaging research.
- To inform the development of best practices for enhancing diversity in neuroimaging studies.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving semi-structured one-on-one interviews with 31 participants.
- Participants were from under-represented ethnic-racial identities and low-income backgrounds.
- Thematic analysis was used to identify key recommendations from participant feedback.
Main Results:
- Nine key research practice recommendations were identified.
- Recommendations include diverse research teams, improved accessibility (transportation, scheduling), and family-friendly spaces.
- Further suggestions involve accommodating tattoos for MRI, interactive tasks, personalized compensation (brain images), sharing findings, and fostering bidirectional relationships.
Conclusions:
- Participant-driven insights are vital for creating inclusive neuroimaging protocols.
- Implementing these recommendations can enhance participant diversity and improve the generalizability of neuroimaging research.
- Fostering long-term, trusting relationships is key to sustained engagement with under-represented communities.
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