“We surely are researchers now!” Participatory methods as an empowering process with disabled children in research

This study explores how participatory research methods can empower disabled children over time. The researchers found that when participatory methods are used appropriately and consistently, they can contribute to an empowerment process for disabled children involved in research. The work is grounded in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 12, which recognises children's right to be heard. The study calls for greater use of disabled children's own strengths and agency in research processes.

Key points

• Appropriate use of participatory methods over time contributes to empowerment of disabled children in research
• The study is based on UNCRC Article 12 regarding children's right to participate
• Disabled children's inner strength and efforts should be built upon to increase their power in research
• The research demonstrates the potential of participatory approaches as an empowering process

Limitations

The document provides only abstract-level information; it does not detail the specific methods used, the number of children involved, measurable outcomes, or how empowerment was assessed or demonstrated. We cannot determine the geographic context beyond Norway or understand the practical implementation of the participatory methods.