Using photovoice to understand community perceptions of firearm risks and protective factors among Asian Americans

This study used photovoice methodology to explore Asian Americans' perspectives on the root causes and protective factors of firearm violence in their communities. Photovoice provided a participatory platform for community members to document lived experiences and identify priorities for change. Participants captured photographs depicting their experiences, concerns, and protective factors related to firearm violence, followed by facilitated focus group discussions. Transcripts and their reflections were analyzed using thematic coding. Emergent themes were organized using the Social-Ecological Model to characterize individual, community, and societal level influences. Thirty-nine individuals participanted. Participants identified mental health challenges, racism and discrimination, firearm accessibility, and unsafe neighborhood environments as key root causes of firearm violence. Protective factors identified included culturally responsive firearm safety education, accessible healthcare and social services, and building an inclusive safe community. Themes demonstrated how individual experiences intersect with broader social and structural conditions. Photovoice generated meaningful insights into the multilevel contributors to firearm violence among Asian American communities. Community-engaged approaches can inform culturally responsive policies and interventions; further research using participatory methods to advance community-driven solutions is warranted.