As a psychology student, reading about social change research has been absolutely thrilling. We read in our module that what sets apart social change research from classic scientific research is the active involvement of the researcher. While we are encouraged to remain as objective as possible when conducting classic scientific research, in social change research a researcher’s investment in the procedures and outcomes is actually looked at as a benefit. This sentiment is further conveyed in participatory research, where the researcher is involved in the community they are researching (Nelson, 2022). While I can see value in both forms of research, I would argue that having a personal investment in a project works for the project’s success in a number of ways.
First, having relationships and connections within the community where a researcher is conducting this research can be a huge advantage. Gaining the trust of individuals whether looking to conduct surveys, interviews, or participation in other ways, can be a lofty hurdle. If the researcher is already a part of this community, on the other hand, they already have a leg-up so to speak. These individuals will feel confident that the researcher has their best interests at heart as feelings of comradery are shared among community members. Additionally, they may be willing to open up more easily and provide more truthful answers to aid research goals.
Participatory research can be supremely beneficial because a researcher who has a personal stake in the community they are servicing may have a better understanding of the social problem. Along with this, they likely have a robust idea of the barriers faced within this community when looking to solve the problem, as well as the tactics that have already been implemented. Eradicating duplicate efforts leaves more time for new ideas and further research. Ultimately, the goal that is reached will be more timely and more suitable for those in the community.
The personal insight of researchers working within their own communities can prove incredibly valuable in formulating interventions. Through this insight, researchers have the unique ability to cater solutions to their direct audiences for the social problems they are facing. Understanding the problem as well as the perpetuating and precipitating factors is integral to formulating successful interventions. This involvement should not be seen as a conflict of interest but as a research advantage.
Reference
Nelson, A. (2022). Psych 424 – Social Change/Participatory Research. The Pennsylvania State University, World Campus.
I agree that having a connection to the community is a huge advantage. I’ve listened to stories over the years on various true crime podcasts that discuss how certain crimes started to be solved only once someone was able to gain the trust of a (rightfully) untrusting community. Having an understanding of the real issues plaguing the community is also huge in achieving real change.