Participatory Action Research in Community Psychology. Principles and Challenges

Abstract

This paper provides a review of some of the principles and challenges of Participatory Action Research (PAR) as it is utilized in community psychology, including its ideological and epistemological characteristics, and general implementation strategies. The degree of control, collaboration and commitment of the people involved in the research process determine their level of participation. This in turn can be used to classify PAR interventions. The central activities of participatory action research include investigation, education and action. Participatory needs assessment methodologies and action guides are suggested as useful strategies for planning and conducting interventions. Several implementation challenges are discussed, including both methodological and practical difficulties. More academic training of future researchers in the effective utilization of PAR methodologies is recommended.