Participatory research. Part 1: key features and underlying philosophy

Background: The use of participatory research approaches is growing within the context of health and social care services, as researchers seek to include service users in research into services provided. Content: Participatory research is characterized by working with a community, changing the balance of power, involving a different role for the researcher and active participation of the community at all stages of the research process. This results in the production of 'useful' knowledge and a commitment to action on the part of the researcher and the community. Conclusions: The areas involved in participatory research are explored to provide readers with an understanding of its key features and underlying philosophy. This provides the foundation for a subsequent article in the next issue, which considers the practical implications of using this as a research approach.