SPECIAL SESSION: Basic Principles and Applications of Community-Based Participatory Research to Advance Nursing Science in HIV Prevention

Description/Overview: This session introduces participants to Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) and provides case illustrations of research applying this approach. Participants learn how CBPR, also known as community-partnered research, differs from traditional research; the rationale for using the approach and historical grounding in nursing; fundamental principles of how CBPR is conducted; and strategies to facilitate the planning of research in collaboration with the communities. The workshop also includes information on establishing effective community advisory boards. Guidelines are provided for implementation and evaluation of CBPR. The Anderson Community Partnership Model is presented with its process phases (Pre-engagement; engagement; community assessment; intervention design; implementation, evaluation, dissemination; and sustainment). Case illustrations of CBPR studies in the U.S. and India involving high-risk young parents and adults are provided by two internationally acclaimed nurse researchers. In these examples, participants learn how community partners were involved in the planning, intervention design, implementation and evaluation phases of the studies. Application of CBPR principles led to development of culturally-relevant, theory-based interventions for the prevention of HIV and other infections as well as sustainable strategies to improve the physical and mental health of those affected by HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, case scenarios of the impact that CBPR has on the lives of the participants involved will be presented, which in many cases, can be life-changing. This includes a bright future which promotes ongoing education, fulfillment of family aspirations, and an ongoing motivation and passion to continue work in the community. For high-risk young mothers and fathers, concern about the well-being of their child (parental protectiveness) served as a motivator of positive behavior change to improve their life course. The session concludes with considerations for improving CBPR studies involving community-academic partnership.