Walking the Walk: Conducting Feminist Community-Based Research

Abstract

This chapter describes how community-based research can be used to put the principles of feminist science into practice. It provides examples of feminist community-based research projects conducted with youth populations with the goal of promoting social change. Community-based research may encompass a number of specific approaches (such as participatory action research), but in general it emphasizes collaborative work with community members, often giving a platform for the voices of disenfranchised groups. This chapter delineates how collaborative relationships are built by attending to the balance of power between researchers and participants, while recognizing that the degree of collaboration may vary depending upon the needs and interests of the community. The chapter also explores the importance of researchers engaging in reflexivity to increase their awareness of the ways their own values will impact the research process. Finally, ethical considerations when conducting feminist community-based research are explored and best practices are offered.