Affective Facilitation: A Framework for Surfacing Lived Experiences and Harnessing Creativity in Focus Group Research

Abstract

In this article, we introduce the framework of Affective Facilitation to the practice of focus group research. In this context, Affective Facilitation is defined as a framework that helps researchers (1) surface and deeply understand participants’ lived experiences, bearing in mind their individual differences, (2) make space for exploring common ground across their diverse backgrounds, and (3) connect with participants through empathy and compassion using active and reflective listening skills. Conceptually, the framework draws on the theoretical and philosophical strands of phenomenology, existential dialogue, holism, and Gestalt therapy. In practice, it employs graphic facilitation as a technique for fostering group learning and connection while creating a visual memory of the dialogue. We explain the implementation of this actionable framework through a case study of facilitated conversations with parents who share their lived experiences, providing insight into their perceptions, beliefs, and concerns regarding childhood vaccination. This study contributes to a growing body of work on creative, participatory, and arts-based research methods.