Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) and Healing: Reflections From YPAR Projects Through the Lens of the Healing Ethno and Racial Trauma Framework

• In Event: Sanctuaries of Survivance: Healing-Centered Engagement Within Youth Participatory Action Research

Abstract

There is little research on YPAR as a methodological and pedagogical approach that fosters youth critical consciousness, and stimulates healing. In this paper I reflect on my facilitation of youth participatory action research projects (YPAR) with Latinx youth in community youth organizations in the Midwest, Southwest, and South Texas. My reflections are guided through the lens of a framework grounded in liberating psychology and trauma-informed care. The HEART (Healing Ethno And Racial Trauma) framework is composed of four phases, and each phase fosters wellbeing, healing, and aims to promote awareness of systemic oppression and action. My paper will present reflection data of YPAR projects for each of the four phases of the HEART framework. The aim is to highlight YPAR as a methodology and pedagogy that can develop Latinx youth critical consciousness and stimulate healing.

Author

• Carlos R. Casanova, Arizona State University
  Presenting Author