Introduction
Street-connected children and youth (SCCY) in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) face unique challenges that make them vulnerable in research settings. The study "Adapting ethical guidelines for adolescent health research to street-connected children and youth in low- and middle-income countries: a case study from western Kenya" provides a comprehensive framework for addressing these challenges. By focusing on community engagement, equitable recruitment, informed consent, and protection from coercion, the study offers valuable insights for practitioners aiming to improve outcomes for vulnerable youth.
Key Findings and Recommendations
1. Community Engagement and Equitable Recruitment
Effective community engagement is crucial for conducting ethical research in LMIC. This approach respects the sociocultural context and the lived experiences of children. Practitioners should involve key stakeholders, including governmental officials, community-based organizations, and SCCY themselves, to ensure that research is conducted ethically and that participants are recruited equitably.
2. Informed Consent and Assent
Obtaining informed consent from SCCY can be challenging due to their lack of legal guardians and uncertain cognitive capacity. The study recommends a multifaceted approach to informed consent, including community-based approval and a comprehension assessment to ensure participants understand the research. Practitioners should consider allowing SCCY to appoint a trusted adult community member to witness their assent.
3. Addressing Vulnerability to Coercion
SCCY are particularly vulnerable to coercion due to their lack of basic necessities. The study suggests using non-monetary compensation, such as food or transportation, to avoid coercion while ensuring participation. Practitioners should provide healthcare services to SCCY regardless of their participation in research to minimize potential coercion.
Implementing Research Outcomes
Practitioners can implement the outcomes of this research by adopting ethical guidelines that address the specific vulnerabilities of SCCY. This involves:
- Engaging with community stakeholders to gain support and input for research projects.
- Utilizing a comprehensive consent process that includes community approval and comprehension assessments.
- Providing non-coercive compensation and ensuring access to healthcare for all SCCY.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides a robust framework, further research is needed to refine these guidelines and adapt them to different contexts. Practitioners are encouraged to explore innovative methods for engaging SCCY in research and to share their findings to contribute to the global understanding of ethical research with vulnerable populations.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Adapting ethical guidelines for adolescent health research to street-connected children and youth in low- and middle-income countries: a case study from western Kenya.
