Peer research assistants: Promoting the shift from the status of patient to that of fully-fledged citizen
Context: Scientific literature suggests that the participation of individuals in the recovery process as research partners represents an added scientific and social value to drug addiction research. However, few studies have systematically evaluated the impacts of such participation on the persons concerned and on their perception of it. Objective: This article describes various approaches and levels of possible participation in research. The effects of their participation were discussed by persons who were actively involved in two projects. Discussion groups were held with a view to finding out what they thought active participation in research could offer them and what they thought they could provide to a research dynamic, as peer research assistants. Results: Participating actively in a research project encourages emancipation from poverty, while recognizing skills and offering access to information. It also provides an opportunity for the persons involved to assume responsibilities, and some research topics seem more likely that others to foster greater levels of participation. The two main themes which emerged in regard to the effect of the participation of the peer research assistants were those of non-verbal language and stronger relationship bonds. That is, their presence improved retention and increased the interest of the other participants in the study, since this dynamic made the participants more comfortable in expressing themselves, a fact that was then also transferred to their natural living environment. Conclusion: The various possible levels and degrees of participation in research may be combined and vary over time or according to the themes of the research project. More research is needed to better understand the issues involved in participating in research and its specific effects in drug addiction, as well as the influence of peer research assistants over civic recovery.