Reflections on the Collaborative Story Analysis Method to Understand Qualitative Perspectives of Indigenous Syringe...

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Research Methods
• Qualitative Data Analysis
• Community-Based Participatory Research

Background:

• Western research methods pose ethical challenges in Indigenous community studies due to colonial histories.
• Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) promotes equity but may not fully integrate Indigenous worldviews.
• Indigenous Research Methods offer deeper alignment with Indigenous values in research partnerships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of the Collaborative Story Analysis (CSA) method.
• To share experiences and perceptions of using CSA, an Indigenous Research Method, in qualitative data analysis.
• To provide insights for others implementing Indigenous Research Methods in research.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary qualitative data analysis team, including tribal community members and academics, was assembled.
• The team utilized the Collaborative Story Analysis method within a CBPR project on Indigenous harm reduction clients.
• Process discussions were held to evaluate the implementation of the CSA method.

Main Results:

• The Collaborative Story Analysis method successfully honored relationships and Indigenous storytelling.
• The depth of qualitative data analysis was significantly strengthened by using CSA.
• Tensions arose during the implementation of CSA within a dominant Western cultural context.

Conclusions:

• The Collaborative Story Analysis method offers a valuable approach for qualitative data analysis aligned with Indigenous worldviews.
• Integrating Indigenous Research Methods enhances research equity and strengthens analytical depth.
• Addressing cultural tensions is crucial for successful implementation of Indigenous Research Methods in collaborative research.