Participatory research from the angle of empowerment-theory: Some critical reflections

Abstract

This article focuses on the relation of research and praxis. In applying a community psychology perspective, the author tries to analyze contradictions in the participatory praxis of organizations and research projects. He argues for a combined approach which includes empowerment and participation. Two empirical examples shed light on the author's theoretical explications.

Keywords

• participatory research
• participatory organization
• empowerment
• development of organizations