What is youth participatory action research?

Through active participation in research, youth develop critical skills while addressing issues that deeply matter to their communities. Youth participatory action research (YPAR) supports youth on their path to academic and professional success and creates opportunities to reflect on the root causes of social problems. It also promotes civic engagement, leadership, and changes in attitudes or behaviors toward important social issues like drug use and school bullying. 

Methods like Photovoice allow youth to use photography and storytelling to document challenges in their communities, encouraging reflection on healthy and unhealthy relationships, cultural identity, and community connection. Research shows that involving youth in every step of the process makes participation more meaningful and sustainable. To learn more, download our factsheet below.