Participatory methods in school health promotion Az érintettek bevonására épülő beavatkozások

Abstract

Participatory methods are used in the design process of health promotion programs in many parts of the world. The essence of the method is to involve the target group of a program as well as other stakeholders in the development process of the program itself, beginning with the problem assessment phase. The programs developed this way can rely on more realistic and precise problem definitions that are more in line with the target group’s perception of reality; develop interventions that are better suited to these and to the available resources and limitations; and enjoy a greater commitment of those involved both to the program and in general to overcoming the problem itself. Therefore, participatory programs can be equal competitors to programs designed in a non-participatory, expert-based process in terms of effectiveness and efficiency. In addition, the participation process itself can initiate a number of positive changes in local communities, which themselves can have an impact on health status: the empowerment of citizens with little or no power and, in general, the promotion of a say in shaping public affairs as a democratic right. Participatory programs, however, can differ significantly depending on the initial timing of the involvement in the decision-making process, as well as the method and the ultimate goal of the involvement. According to scientific experience, the participatory process can be more effective if the stakeholders are involved as early as possible in the process, in a way that allows interactions between the stakeholders to the greatest extent possible, and with the honest intention of actual empowerment of people.