Introduction
In the realm of research ethics, stakeholder engagement often takes a backseat, viewed as a "have-to-do" rather than a "want-to-do." However, recent research by Wilkinson et al. (2022) sheds light on the critical role of ethics review in addressing the "3 Ts" of stakeholder engagement: Tokenism, Toxicity, and Tailoring. These insights are particularly relevant for practitioners in online therapy services like TinyEYE, who are committed to improving outcomes for children through data-driven approaches.
The "3 Ts" of Stakeholder Engagement
- Tokenism: This occurs when engagement becomes a mere checkbox exercise, lacking genuine interaction and inclusivity. For practitioners, this means moving beyond superficial engagement to ensure all voices, especially those of children and their families, are heard and valued.
- Toxicity: Engagement practices can inadvertently harm participants or stakeholders, such as reinforcing negative stereotypes or creating undue pressure. Practitioners should be vigilant in identifying and mitigating these risks.
- Tailoring: Engagement must be customized to fit the specific needs and contexts of each study or service. This involves adjusting the intensity and methods of engagement to suit the unique characteristics of the target population.
Implementing Effective Stakeholder Engagement
To improve stakeholder engagement, practitioners should consider the following strategies:
- Early and Sustained Engagement: Engage stakeholders from the outset and maintain this engagement throughout the lifecycle of the project. This ensures that their input is meaningful and impactful.
- Inclusive Practices: Ensure that engagement is broad and representative, including diverse voices and perspectives. This is particularly important in online therapy services where the needs of children can vary widely.
- Flexible and Responsive Approaches: Adapt engagement strategies based on feedback and changing circumstances. This responsiveness is crucial in maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of the engagement process.
The Role of Ethics Review Committees (RECs)
Ethics review committees play a pivotal role in promoting meaningful stakeholder engagement. By asking insightful questions and providing guidance, RECs can help practitioners avoid tokenism and toxicity while ensuring that engagement is appropriately tailored. For example, RECs can encourage practitioners to consider questions like:
- How have you engaged all relevant stakeholders for your study?
- How will engagement encompass the lifespan of the study?
- How will engagement practices respond to evolving developments?
Conclusion
Effective stakeholder engagement is not just an ethical obligation but a strategic advantage. By addressing the "3 Ts" of Tokenism, Toxicity, and Tailoring, practitioners can enhance the quality and impact of their services. For those in the field of online therapy, like TinyEYE, these insights offer a roadmap for creating more inclusive and effective engagement strategies that ultimately lead to better outcomes for children.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: “It’s Almost as if Stakeholder Engagement is the Annoying ‘Have-to-do'…”: Can Ethics Review Help Address the “3 Ts” of Tokenism, Toxicity, and Tailoring in Stakeholder Engagement?
