“We’re Talking About You, Not to You”: Methodological Reflections on Public Health Research With Families With Young Children

Abstract

In this article, we critically reflect upon the experience of public health research involving children and contribute to existing conversations about the methodological and ethical facets of research in this field. Drawing on two phases of a study that sought to explore the lived experiences of families with young children who have had a recent common childhood illness (gastrointestinal infection), we address the research process, from inception of the studies, to fieldwork and the resultant material obtained. We argue that when researching with families about a child-centered experience, it is important to look beyond the individual adult as “participant” and to conceptualize dependents either as, or “like” participants—what we suggest as a “family-centered approach.” Theoretically, this strategy best addresses the lived reality of relationality and responsibility of parent/carers for dependent children; while improving the ease and safety of data collection for the researcher and participants alike.

Giving voice to children in research: The power of child‐centered constructivist grounded theory methodology

“…CGT researchers may, however, face challenges in coconstructing data with children, including implementing child‐inclusive techniques, and providing a child‐sensitive research environment. Researchers who fail to unlock the potentials of children as constructors, thinkers, and communicators within the construction process can disempower children, and tokenize their status as autonomous agents (Eastham & Kaley, 2020; Tay‐Lim & Lim, 2013). Hence, methods that provide children with shared control over language and concepts are critical for ensuring that their voices are heard effectively.…”

“…Interestingly, interviews conducted in children's homes provided the opportunity for other family members to add their thoughts and comments after the interviews. These incidental interactions provided valuable information about their attitude towards the child's condition and their asthma care experiences with the child (Eastham & Kaley, 2020; Melton et al, 2014).…”

“…towards the child's condition and their asthma care experiences with the child (Eastham & Kaley, 2020;Melton et al, 2014).…”

“…The study sample included Indian immigrant children (8−17 years old) and their primary caregivers. This age range was chosen based on the evidence that research with children aged 7 years and older is most effective in eliciting meaningful data (Eastham & Kaley, 2020). The recruitment occurred through multiple channels based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria (see Table 1); these included general practices and schools from selected suburbs of Wellington and through various Indian cultural associations.…”

“…These contemporary models of childhood emphasize the significance of researching by and with children rather than on them, by listening to their words, emotions, actions, and social interactions. Moreover, it has been argued that without their voice, understanding the lives of children would be incomplete (Eastham & Kaley, 2020; Stirrup, 2017).…”