February 2024 SOCRA Source Journal - Journal - Page 46
TABLE 6:
STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE PARTICIPATION IN BEHAVIORAL RESEARCH
Make research relevant:
• Ensure research is relevant and responsive to the needs of participants
• Consider possible barriers from the perspectives of stakeholders
• Help participants understand how meaningful their participation can be
Make research visible:
• Make sure research studies are accessible and transparent
• Parents may not be aware of mental health research availabilities
Build trust:
• “Vulnerability stance”
• Reinforce the belief that the researcher is trustworthy
• Remind the participant that the relationship is always based on a voluntary association
◦ Right to withdraw anytime
• Show enthusiasm and respect
Use basic manners:
• Show integrity and be honest and transparent
• Engage the participant without coercion and undue influence
• Assemble a culturally sensitive research team:
◦ Compassionate
◦ Respectful
◦ Dignified
• Be polite and respectful
• Offer more time as needed to explain the research procedures
Make it easy:
• Accommodate families and offer alternative choices
• Be flexible about study visits and incentive arrangements
• Have a back-up plan
Advocacy:
• Engage the community
• Involve key stakeholders
• Consider collaborative efforts with:
◦ Social service agencies
◦ Local mental health agencies
◦ Schools
◦ Mental health advocacy groups
Avoid stigmatization:
• Educate the community about mental illness:
◦ Use this opportunity to facilitate recruitment
• Avoid using stigmatizing and embarrassing terms such as mental illness
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SOCRA SOURCE © May 2023