Applying Action Research in a Mixed Methods Positive Body Image Program Assessment With Older Adults and People With Physical Disability and Chronic Illness

Abstract

Action research is a methodology seldom used within both body image and mixed methods research. The current study is an application of action research to a 6-week mixed methods assessment of a positive body image program. Eighteen participants (14 women, 4 men) completed questionnaires pre–post intervention and at a 6-week follow-up. Sixteen participants completed individual interviews. Using mixed methods, participants’ positive body image was found to significantly improve and be sustained 6-weeks later. A multidimensional mixed methods research finding was an increase in participants’ positive body image and decrease in negative body image. This article highlights the versatility of mixed methods as it integrated well with an action research approach and fueled the interpretation of findings in a heterogeneous sample.