The use of photo elicitation to explore the benefits of queer student advocacy groups in university.
Citation
Joy, P., & Numer, M. (2017). The use of photo elicitation to explore the benefits of queer student advocacy groups in university. Journal of LGBT Youth, 14(1), 31-50. DOI: 10.1080/19361653.2016.1256247.
Abstract
University can be a critical time for queer identifying youth as they attempt to navigate new relationships and heteronormative and, sometimes, hostile environments. Involvement in queer student groups is one strategy to develop protective mechanisms for these students. This research examines the effect of participation in a queer advocacy group at a local university in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, using a qualitative photo elicitation method. Four themes—learning, safe environments, shared emotional connection, and personal fulfillment and growth—emerged concerning the effects of their involvement in the group. As a research method, photo elicitation was determined to be an effective tool for queer identifying youth, allowing for in-depth exploration of the data and self-reflection. Recommendations for queer student advocacy groups are given. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)