Work

Participatory action research with self‐help groups: An alternative paradigm for inquiry and action

Year: 1991

Type: article

Abstract: Presents participatory action research (PAR) as a scientific paradigm most relevant for inquiry and action with self-help groups. "Subjects" individual and collective involvement in the design, conduct, and utilization of research, and scientists' involvement in action to improve group functioning, are among the hallmarks of PAR. Such an approach is most consistent with self-help characteristics and ideology: highly participative membership, aprofessional leadership, localist and grass-roots orientation, and respect for experience-based knowledge. Conducting research and action for change that simultaneously generates useful knowledge and advances group goals requires new scientific roles and techniques. The orthodoxy of the conventional scientific paradigm is problematic for productive inquiry about self-help and for aiding self-help groups.

Source: American Journal of Community Psychology

DOI: 10.1007/bf00938043

Author: Mark A. Chesler

Institution: University of Michigan

Language: English

Topic: Community Health and Development

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: U.S. Public Health Service

Award: G1288481624