Can Photovoice foster the development of social support?

Abstract

Photovoice is a participatory, photo‐based research method that differs from conventional (non‐participatory) research in that the process is meant to be empowering and beneficial. However, empirical research on the Photovoice process remains very limited. Based on feedback from participants who reported Photovoice helped them develop closer relationships, we examine whether engaging in Photovoice fosters social support. Transcripts from a Photovoice study on wellness in mental health Clubhouses (voluntary, community mental health centers) were retrospectively analyzed for instrumental support, appraisal, informational support, and emotional support. Appraisal was the most common form of social support identified, and was primarily expressed through peer praise for photos and insights. Informational support included advice on managing symptoms, promoting wellness, and navigating challenges. Instrumental support was fostered by learning the tangible skill of digital photography and by supporting fellow members with physical or visual limitations to participate in the process. Emotional support was cultivated through encouragement, identification of shared experiences, and connection through humor. In sum, the findings suggest that Photovoice has the potential to foster social support, which may support relational empowerment.

A conceptual model of how mental health clubhouses impact health and quality of life among individuals with serious mental illness.

“…In this case, members typically shared initial insights, and facilitators ask follow-up questions to the member and to the group. Other members and staff commented on what they saw, asked questions, paid compliments, and identified aspects of shared experience (a retrospective analysis of group commentary and relationship building that occurred during sessions is available in Agner, Nakamura, et al, 2023). Sessions were recorded and later transcribed for analysis.…”

The role of temporality in adolescent refugees' sense of well‐being

“…We also organized each group to include participants with similar ages and divided siblings into separate groups. Even though the photovoice methodology fosters the development of social support among participants and facilitators (Agner et al, 2023), we aimed to create a safe and unintimidating space for participants to share by forming groups with a shared language and age, and without the pressure to portray a certain persona for one's siblings.…”

“…Beyond collecting research data, the photovoice methodology includes activities focused on individual and collective improvement to empower participants (Agner et al, 2023; Budig et al, 2018) and communities (Cantarero‐Arévalo & Werremeyer, 2021). Building on participants' goals to attend college and pursue advanced degrees, we organized voluntary activities for interested participants to learn about qualitative research, paths to higher education, and a university setting.…”

Creative virtual engagement: Successes and challenges supporting people with serious mental illness in hybrid Clubhouse environments.

“…All sessions occurred via Zoom to allow for cross-island participation. Sessions were organized following the procedures described by Wang and Burris (1997) and informed by several others who have adapted PV for different populations (Castleden et al, 2008; Hergenrather et al, 2009) with Clubhouse members specifically (Agner et al, 2023).…”