Voices of youth: youth participation in the CO-CREATE project

StatusVoR
Alternative title
Authors
Meshkovska, Biljana
Moerman, Gerben
Baillergeau, Evelyne
Bröer, Christian
Lien, Nanna
Łuszczyńska, Aleksandra
Rito, Ana Isabel
Knai, Cécile
Helleve, Arnfinn
Monograph
Monograph (alternative title)
Date
2025-05-20
Publisher
Journal title
BMC Public Health
Issue
1
Volume
25
Pages
Pages
1-12
ISSN
1471-2458
ISSN of series
Access date
2025-05-20
Abstract PL
Abstract EN
Introduction Applying youth participatory action research (YPAR) has become common practice in public health. However, there are challenges in applying YPAR and there is a need for improving the process by learning from youth that has participated in such projects. This study explores youth involvement in the CO-CREATE project which focused on developing overweight and obesity prevention policies. Methods This is a qualitative study, based on three data sources: 1) fieldnotes taken by project staff during observation of youth (approximately 150 observations) 2) semi-structured interviews with project staff (n = 12) 3) direct feedback from participating youth through feedback forms (n = 51). Data was analyzed in NVivo, following the principles of reflexive thematic analysis. Results Five themes were generated which showcase youth involvement in CO-CREATE: 1) an inspired and engaged youth; 2) insights through respectful interactions; 3) a strength of voice and call to action; 4) challenges in understanding project and disengagement; and 5) interpersonal conflict and pressure to participate. Conclusion Taking the time to build trust and create a feeling of equality is important. It is also important to allow youth to take the lead when they wish so and have clear ideas of how to do so. Voices of rebelliousness can be a show of strength and help reach the goals of the project. Participation in CO-CREATE may have contributed toward individual empowerment of youth.
Abstract other
Keywords PL
Keywords EN
Youth
Participatory action research
Policy
Prevention
Overweight and obesity
Qualitative
Keywords other
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Place of exhibition (institution)
Exhibition curator
Type
License type
cc-by
Except as otherwise noted, this item is licensed under the Attribution licence | Permitted use of copyrighted works
Funder
Time range from
Time range to
Contact person name
Related publication
Related publication
Grant/project name
Confronting Obesity: Co-creating policy with youth
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Acquisition Date1.08.2025
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Acquisition Date1.08.2025
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