Participatory action research in indigenous health.

BACKGROUND

Participatory action research engenders change not just through research outcomes but through the research process itself. Collaboration between researchers and those being researched is intrinsic to the model.

OBJECTIVE

This article discusses the 'Sadness and Heart Disease' research project undertaken by an Aboriginal community controlled health service in Darwin (Northern Territory) in 2005 and 2006 using a participatory action framework.

DISCUSSION

A systematic approach, flexibility and a willingness to engage are necessary for researchers to successfully undertake a project using the participatory action framework. The benefits of participatory action research extend to both the community and the researchers.