Empowerment is often one of the rationales underpinning rights-informed participatory research with children. It is generally framed as a ‘benefit’ children may experience through sharing their perspectives and experiences, having these taken seriously and making or contributing to decisions (such as during the informed consent process). Benefits associated with empowerment may include increased sense of ‘voice,’ recognition and respect, greater sense of self-esteem and self-advocacy and a sense of satisfaction that their insights might improve their lives and/or help others in similar situations. Depending upon the kind of participation offered, empowerment may also be experienced through co-research activities such as collaborating with adults in research to better understand an issue and influencing others to improve children’s lives. Empowerment requires close attention to issues of power, agency and voice.
Related Terms:
Benefit,
Participation Rights,
Participatory Research
