The Use of Photovoice in Youth Health Education Programs: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of photovoice in health education programs designed for young people. Methodology: Nine electronic databases were systematically searched and screened using specific predetermined criteria. Data, such as intervention characteristics, methodology, and analysis, were extracted and narratively analyzed. Results: A total of 96 studies were included. Photovoice was used in a wide variety of health programs such as obesity prevention and physical activity promotion. Thematic analysis was generally used to analyze the use of photovoice; other measures of effectiveness and impact were rare. Conclusion: Visual methods such as photovoice are emerging as a valuable tool to use when delivering health education programs to young people. It is critical that photovoice is chosen and adapted to suit participant needs in order to optimize engagement within the project.