The influence of transport on well-being among teenagers: A photovoice project in New Zealand

Abstract

Background: Transport mobility has the potential to greatly affect teenagers ability to independently access their social networks, key activities and destinations. Consequently, it makes sense to consider the role that transport plays in influencing well-being among older adolescents. The aim of this study was to investigate how older teenagers perceive the impact of transport on their well-being. Methods: Participatory photography or "photovoice" uses photographs taken by those with seemingly little power or status in order to enhance community needs assessments, to empower participants, and to provide a comprehensive description of an issue. This method was utilized among senior secondary school students aged 16-18 in Southland, New Zealand (. n=18; 50% male). Their group discussions of common themes concerning transport and well-being provided richness and depth to each photograph displayed. Results: Photographs and resulting discussions suggested that transport infrastructure played a key role in supporting well-being among participants. Regardless of the destination, photos and narratives by participants who lived close to town, and who were able to walk to destinations as part of their daily trip chain, displayed independence, happiness and positive social aspects of well-being. Living farther away from town elicited photo stories of loneliness and decreased autonomy, with respect to transport. Conclusions: Transport had an influence on the well-being of this group of teenagers. Photovoice projects are a valuable way to engage youth and provide context for new research topics such as this. New knowledge generated by this project will inform future research focused on transport as a correlate of well-being among youth.