As a young person I understood research to simply mean exploring a subject in depth, but now I understand that research isn't just simply finding out things but involves a series of different stages. Being involved in the whole research process, I've realised the importance of involving young people in research because, as well as learning what research is about, we also bring new ideas and show researchers what young people really think.
- What has your involvement been?
I've had the opportunity to carry out my own research within a group of young people, as well as to work with adult researchers on their projects, and to speak at two conferences.
- What have you learned?
In the group I have discovered that the adults and young people often have different ideas on the same subjects. This clearly indicates the importance of involving young people in planning research about young people's public health, as it makes sure researchers are asking the right questions in the right way.
- What are the benefits of involving young people in this research?
I think that involving young people in research has benefits for both young people and adults. We are taught a new skill that we can put into action as we grow up and know that we are making a difference to public health research, while adult researchers get to see their research from our perspective and also understand what our priorities are for public health.
