Research done in "A good way": The importance of indigenous elder involvement in HIV community-based research

S. Flicker, P. O'Campo, R. Monchalin, J. Thistle, C. Worthington, R. Masching, A. Guta, S. Pooyak, W. Whitebird and C. Thomas

American Journal of Public Health, 2015, vol. 105, issue 6, 1149-1154

Abstract: Objectives. We examined the role that Indigenous Elders can play in ensuring that community-based research (CBR) is conducted ethically. Methods. We present data from a larger qualitative study exploring ethical issues that occur in HIV-related CBR through the experiences of researchers engaged in CBR. Between May 2010 and July 2011, we interviewed 51 academic and community research team leaders of federally funded HIV CBR studies. We used thematic analysis techniques to identify themes. Results. Participating researchers engage Elders in research because Elders are keepers of Indigenous knowledge, dynamic ethical consultants, community protectors, and credible sources of information who are able to counsel and support, mediate conflict, provide local context and history, and conduct ceremonial roles. Potential challenges cited by participants to engaging Elders in research include finding the right "fit," approaching Elders in a culturally appropriate way, and bureaucratic environments that do not honor Indigenous processes. Conclusions. Culturally appropriate Elder engagement in HIV CBR with Indigenous communities is vital for promoting positive relationships and culturally safe research that respects ceremony and Indigenous ways of knowing. © 2015, American Public Health Association Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords: aged; American Indian; Canada; cultural factor; female; HIV Infections; human; interview; male; methodology; organization and management; participatory research; psychology; qualitative research; role playing, Aged; Canada; Community-Based Participatory Research; Cultural Characteristics; Female; HIV Infections; Humans; Indians, North American; Interviews as Topic; Male; Qualitative Research; Research Design; Role (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:10.2105/ajph.2014.302522_8

DOI: 10.2105/AJPH.2014.302522

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