People with disabilities are frequently the subjects of research, with much of that focus on their health challenges and the obstacles they face in navigating society. 

PhotoVoice changes those dynamics by offering adults with disabilities a chance to show what makes their life enjoyable.  

Wichita State University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is partnering on the PhotoVoice research project with AbilityPoint, an organization focused on the needs of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Participants are given a digital camera and memory card to take 50 (or more) pictures of the people, places, things and activities that bring them joy.  

Meaningful participation in the research gives people a sense of satisfaction and pride in their story, said Trisha Self, associate professor in communication sciences and disorders. 

“There was something about focusing on what’s good in somebody’s space, and not the challenges,” she said. “It gives them the opportunity to put meaning to what’s going on their lives.” 

PhotoVoice, established in 1999, uses participatory photography for projects around the world. While many of its projects focus on public policy, this one is different. 

“It seems like a simple question, but as I’ve now completed one round of data collection with the folks from AbilityPoint, I think it’s so much more meaningful,” Self said. “That idea of ‘What brings you joy in your life?' If you give someone a simple camera . . . what happens? What do we learn?’” 

The project is well into its second round of 10 participants and starting on a third. 

“It’s a unique platform for them to be able to communicate the things that are special in their lives,” said Kristen Phillips, operations director at AbilityPoint. “I know how much joy it brought to the individuals.” 

Self and Bryan Thompson, who is working on his doctoral degree in communication sciences and disorders, are working with AbilityPoint. After the 10 participants take pictures over two or three weeks, Self and Thompson interview them about their motivations for taking the pictures. Some participants are accompanied by parents or guardians.  

“We saw this cool thing happening with the participants and their pride of having done this,” Self said. “‘This is mine. I’m telling you about my work. I’m telling you about the data you wanted that I gathered.’ They get that they are creating this research piece.” 

Through the interviews, Self and Thompson will compile data about themes and content. Family, pets, jobs, nature, shopping, religion and food surfaced as frequent themes. Parents and caregivers enjoyed watching the participants describe their lives. For some, using a camera is easier than using a cell phone to take pictures. 

“You see a connection with others. With a lot of them, that is highly important,” Thompson said. “A community and a connection with others are key aspects.”