Critical Reflections on Participatory Action Research in a Prison Setting

Abstract

There is little information about prison-related occupational deprivation, and about doing research in prison. To document an occupational therapist and two prisoners’ critical reflections on an informal occupational therapy education program using participatory action research (PAR), we reflect on our combined experiences of evaluating an occupational therapy program. The reflections include articulation of power differentials and examples of occupational deprivation and injustice at every stage of the program evaluation process. We found that the PAR process allowed all collaborators to engage of co-occupation and gain a keener understanding of occupational justice. With co-occupation came personal growth and an appreciation for each other’s humanity despite our diverse backgrounds. Recognizing that research in prison can be challenging, the results suggest it can also be rewarding. We offer insights and practical suggestions for doing research in prison.