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Participatory action as a research method with public health nurses
Author(s) -
Cusack Cheryl,
Cohen Benita,
Mig Javier,
Chartier Mariette J.,
Lutfiyya Zana
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
journal of advanced nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.948
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 1365-2648
pISSN - 0309-2402
DOI - 10.1111/jan.13555
Subject(s) - participatory action research , empowerment , critical consciousness , action research , citizen journalism , sociology , nursing , public relations , medicine , pedagogy , political science , anthropology , law
Aim This article explores and describes participatory action research (PAR) as a preferred method in addressing nursing practice issues. This is the first study that used PAR with public health nurses (PHNs) in Canada to develop a professional practice model. Background Participatory action research is a sub‐category of action research that incorporates feminist and critical theory with foundations in the field of social psychology. For nurses, critical analysis of long‐established beliefs and practices through PAR contributes to emancipatory knowledge regarding the impact of traditional hierarchies on their practice. Design This study used participatory action, a non‐traditional but systematic research method, which assisted participants to develop a solution to a long‐standing organizational issue. Method The stages of generating concerns, participatory action, acting on concerns, reflection and evaluation were implemented from 2012 ‐ 2013 in an urban Canadian city, to develop a professional practice model for PHNs. Findings Four sub‐themes specific to PAR are discussed. These are “participatory action research engaged PHNs in development of a professional practice model;” “the participatory action research cycles of “Look, Think, Act” expanded participants’ views;” “participatory action research increased awareness of organizational barriers;” and “participatory action research promoted individual empowerment and system transformation.” Conclusions This study resulted in individual and system change that may not have been possible without the use of PAR. The focus was engagement of participants and recognition of their lived experience, which facilitated PHNs’ empowerment, leadership and consciousness‐raising.