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A case study of community-based participatory research ethics: The healthy public housing initiative

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Abstract

We conducted and analyzed qualitative interviews with 12 persons working on the Healthy Public Housing Initiative in Boston, Massachusetts in 2001. Our goal was to generate ideas and themes related to the ethics of the community-based participatory research in which they were engaged. Specifically, we wanted to see if we found themes that differed from conventional research that is based on an individualistic ethics. There were clearly distinct ethical issues raised with respect to projects and individuals who engage in community-based collaborations. The differences that arose from the interviews were seeking equality between the partners, the need for the community partner to defend the community, dealing with unflattering data, meeting community expectations and producing tangible benefits to the community.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, 02111, Boston, MA, USA

    Doug Brugge PhD, MS (Assistant Professor) & Alison Kole

Authors
  1. Doug Brugge PhD, MS
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  2. Alison Kole
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Doug Brugge PhD, MS.

Additional information

Alison Kole is an MD/MPH candidate, Tufts University School of Medicine.

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Brugge, D., Kole, A. A case study of community-based participatory research ethics: The healthy public housing initiative. SCI ENG ETHICS 9, 485–501 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-003-0046-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-003-0046-5

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