Experiences of being, and working with, young people with disabilities as peer researchers in Senegal: The impact on data quality, analysis, and well-being

Abstract

The ‘insider’ status of peer researchers can increase access to study informants, enhance data quality and empower them, but comes with challenges related to their ability to collect and analyse quality data and ethical challenges. We piloted a peer research methodology in Senegal as part of a qualitative study on access to sexual and reproductive health services for young people with disabilities (YPWD) to assess how working with YPWD as peer researchers influences the quality of data and data analysis alongside understanding the experiences of being a peer researcher. Our study reveals that peer researchers facilitated building rapport with study informants, but they lacked experience in effectively probing. Some demonstrated potential to be involved in data analysis, but further research is needed to explore their contribution to the analysis and quality of data. We recommend considering peers throughout the whole research cycle, beyond data collection, and providing the necessary training and tools to allow them to effectively participate in the process, especially regarding exploration of sensitive research topics. Reflexivity tools can provide insights into the experiences of peer researchers, as well as monitor their well-being during the process, and contribute to data quality, but must be accompanied by clear guidance.