# Methodological reflections from a research project on the mental health of Black youth

## TL;DR

This study shows how to effectively engage Black youth in mental health research using a culturally responsive and participatory approach.

## Contribution

The paper presents a practical example of culturally responsive PAR methods tailored for Black youth mental health research.

## Key findings

- A PAR approach fostered youth inclusion and meaningful participation in all research phases.
- Monthly conversation cafés and a youth advisory group enhanced engagement and data collection.
- The project demonstrated accessible methods for integrating youth perspectives into mental health policy and practice.

## Abstract

The aim of this study was to provide an illustrative example of how researchers can effectively engage Black youth using a culturally responsive, participatory action research (PAR) approach. We aimed to examine the mental health needs of Black youth and identify culturally relevant strategies to increase access to and uptake of mental health services. The study took a PAR approach to foster maximum inclusion of youth in the research process. We collected data in two phases: (1) individual interviews with 30 youths; and (2) monthly conversation cafs over a four-month period with 99 youth participants. We recruited youth participants through the Africa Centre Youth Empowerment Group in Alberta, at a soccer tournament hosted by Africa Centre and through affiliated social networks, and established a youth advisory group that met quarterly and assisted with data collection, data analysis and dissemination. We shared our findings at a community engagement session for stakeholders. The study provided space for youth to share their experiences and to imagine solutions to their mental health difficulties; it also allowed us to conduct research that carefully integrated the perspectives of those most affected by the study’s policy and practice recommendations. This project is an important case example that demonstrates promising practices and accessible methods across the data collection cycle, as well as the key ingredients and mechanisms that support culturally responsive practice.