“We don't get much of a voice about anything”: perspectives on photovoice among people who inject drugs

Abstract

Abstract Background In the context of the current US opioid crisis, people who inject drugs (PWID) are increasingly researched, but their ability to tell their own stories may be limited. Photovoice is a participatory action research method that allows participants to use photography to directly depict their experiences. Methods We conducted interviews with PWID (n = 33) as part of a qualitative study on the health needs of PWID in the USA to explore interest and acceptability of photovoice as a potential research method and way to share their voices. Results Participants identified facilitators and barriers to participating in a future photovoice project. Facilitators included a chance to depict one’s unique experience, help others in need by sharing one’s own story, and photography being a more “comfortable” way to tell their stories than traditional research methods. Barriers included safety concerns, embarrassment, and ability to retain cameras. Participants also identified areas of sensitivity related to documenting drug use. Conclusions While we found broad acceptability of photovoice, barriers would need to be addressed and additional training and support for research staff and potential participants related to the ethics of public photography and engaging PWID in photovoice research would be required.

Keywords

• Substance abuse
• Intravenous
• Vulnerable populations
• Qualitative research
• Participatory action research
• Photography