A Scoping Review of Photovoice Research Among People With HIV

Abstract

We describe how Photovoice-a participatory method in which people express and share ideas via images-has been used in research with people living with HIV (PLWH). Four databases, reference lists, and journal tables of content were searched to identify peer-reviewed original research, in English, using Photovoice with a sample of PLWH, between 1994 and 2016. Of 1,898 citations identified, 22 studies were included. Studies included a mean of 18 (range 4-38) participants. Studies were of strong quality but lacked consistent procedures. Goals varied and projects included different combinations of introductory, photo training, ethics, group, individual, and exhibit sessions. Descriptions of the researcher-participant relationship were uneven. Photovoice allowed PLWH to inform research and practice priorities through their own visual perspectives. Continued use of Photovoice with PLWH is recommended with greater emphasis on consistent methods and detailed reporting; more studies should be undertaken resulting in actions or advocacy.

Keywords: community-based participatory research; person(s) living with HIV; photovoice; qualitative; scoping review.