The power of adolescent voices: co‐researchers in mental health promotion

Abstract

This article describes a participatory action research project undertaken as a partnership between student, teacher and nurse co‐researchers at a Canadian alternative high school. A key purpose of this research was to explore and interpret the meaning of this partnership for mental health promoting nursing practices with adolescents. Following a description of the research, this discussion focuses on the research process, with learning organized under the themes of belonging and power. Understandings arose from the value of partnerships to promote adolescent health, capability, voice—and hope for their futures. Respect, relationship building and trust development were key ingredients for mutually beneficial adult‐adolescent partnerships and adolescent experiences of voice. Adolescents need guidance and support to use power effectively and adults have an important role to play in assisting this process. Conceptualizing adolescents as research partners with valuable voices promises to create future possibilities for important health promoting change.

Keywords:

• Adolescent voices
• Research partnership
• Belonging
• Power
• Mental health promotion

Acknowledgement

Candace Lind holds a postdoctoral fellowship at the School of Nursing, University of Ottawa. This award is funded by the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Government of Ontario and is offered as part of Dr. Edward’s Nursing Chair.