Abstract
Background
A core aspect of midwifery philosophy is the optimisation of normal physiology; however,
this has been challenged as a radical idea in the medicalisation of birth. Research
has demonstrated the benefits of midwifery in improving outcomes for both mothers
and babies. The understanding of midwifery benefits fails to reach wider sociocultural
contexts as births becomes more medicalised. Midwifery research requires an action
arm, to help translate theory to practice and mobilise midwives in solidarity with
women towards action and change.
Aim
The aim of this article is to describe a Feminist Participatory Action Research (FPAR)
by establishing the philosophical underpinnings, theory and methodology with an exemplar.
Methods
FPAR has two distinct yet intertwined parts, a research arm and an action arm. The
study was conducted using FPAR, and collaboration with nine women, who led transformative
action within their community. The exemplar details the use of the FPAR framework.
Findings
A FPAR framework was developed through this research to guide researchers aiming to
use the FPAR design. The framework details four steps: 1. Create, 2. Collaborate,
3. Consider, and 4. Change. The iterative FPAR cycles were shown in this study to
centre women in the research and guide the community research group towards transformative
action.
Conclusion
FPAR is shown in this project to assist midwifery researchers to realise solidarity
and provides support for other midwifery researchers in applying feminist theory and
participatory methodologies to bring about transformation within their research.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 23, 2022
Accepted:
June 9,
2022
Received in revised form:
May 22,
2022
Received:
April 8,
2022
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian College of Midwives.
