Deconstructing the concept of participation in participatory health research : its limitations and opportunities

Abstract

This contribution explores the multiple, complex layers that are involved in establishing participation in research. Specifically, this contribution analyses the dominant conceptualization of participation in the field of participatory health research (PHR). The focus of this contribution is to analyze the dominant conceptualization of participation in the field of participatory health research (PHR) through the lens of five key aspects underlying participation in PHR: stakeholder engagement, relationships among participatory researchers, empowerment, capacity building, and knowledge transfer. By deconstructing the complex layers of the concept of participation, this contribution seeks to highlight both the limitations of the current conceptualization as well as new perspectives for successful participation in practice. To do so, this contribution provides practical recommendations aimed at overcoming the identified limitations. These recommendations promote an alternative understanding of participation that supports a more responsive approach to challenges at both the structural and individual levels. Acknowledging the limitations and challenges of PHR enables stakeholders to engage in participatory research processes based on mutual respect and appreciation.