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Personal Outcomes in Community‐based Participatory Research Partnerships: A Cross‐site Mixed Methods Study
Author(s) -
Rodríguez Espinosa Patricia,
Sussman Andrew,
Pearson Cynthia R.,
Oetzel John G.,
Wallerstein Nina
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
american journal of community psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.113
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1573-2770
pISSN - 0091-0562
DOI - 10.1002/ajcp.12446
Subject(s) - community based participatory research , participatory action research , general partnership , health equity , public relations , psychology , public health , sociology , political science , medicine , nursing , anthropology , law
Community‐based participatory research (CBPR) has been embraced by diverse populations to address health inequities within their communities. CBPR has been shown to produce favorable health outcomes, but little is known about personal outcomes (e.g., individual growth and capacities) resulting from the direct involvement in a CBPR partnership. We empirically examine which CBPR partnerships’ processes and practices are associated with personal outcomes. We hypothesize that higher levels of collaborative approaches and adherence to CBPR principles and practices would be associated with personal outcomes. Based on a national cross‐site CBPR study, Research for Improved Health, we utilized mixed‐method data from a comprehensive community‐engagement survey ( N = 450) and seven in‐depth case studies to explore the hypothesized relationships. Our multivariate mixed‐effects model revealed the importance of various partnering practices. Relationship dynamics emerged as key predictors including the following: respect in the partnership, voice and influence in decision‐making among partners, and stewardship. Qualitative findings highlighted individual, partnership, and community‐level impacts, within and beyond the partnership. Our findings have implications for CBPR best practices and highlight the potential role of personal outcomes for partnerships’ sustainability, long‐term outcomes, and health equity research.