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Building Relationships with Hard-to-Reach, Hidden, and Seldom-Heard Populations in Research

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Knowledge, Innovation, and Impact: A Guide for the Engaged Health Researcher

Abstract

Authentic engagement of people as research participants in a meaningful, collaborative, and mutually beneficial way involves investment in the development of a relationship between the researcher and the person who is participating in the research process. The development of an authentic research partnership is rooted in three components. First is the development of a relationship of mutual respect by both the researcher and the research participant for each other. Through sharing, listening, dialogue, and active communication, both the researcher and the research participant may value the experiences of the other to form understanding of their similarities and uniqueness. Second is the development of a collaborative relationship “rooted in trust, reciprocity, and diversity, where shared learning is valued” (Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Program (MAREP), 2019). Throughout the relationship, both the researcher and the research participant should have opportunities to learn, grow, and receive positive benefits. Third is viewing the relationship as more than for the sole purpose of participating in a single research project.

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Correspondence to Shannon Freeman .

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Freeman, S., Skinner, K., Middleton, L., Xiong, B., Fang, M.L. (2021). Building Relationships with Hard-to-Reach, Hidden, and Seldom-Heard Populations in Research. In: Sixsmith, A., Sixsmith, J., Mihailidis, A., Fang, M.L. (eds) Knowledge, Innovation, and Impact: A Guide for the Engaged Health Researcher. International Perspectives on Social Policy, Administration, and Practice. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-34390-3_15

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-34390-3_15

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