Evaluation of a Photovoice Project Among Youth to Address Tobacco in a Baltimore City Community

aims: The study aims to cultivate capacity and enhance leadership by allowing Baltimore City youth to become photographers and storytellers (photovoice). The study investigates the degree to which photovoice can be utilized to educate youth about tobacco issues and enhance their leadership competencies. 

methods: The study was conducted within an urban setting from two middle schools; the population was 177 students. A subset (n = 26) were randomized into either photovoice (n=12) or physical activity/nutrition comparison group (n=14). Both groups attended a seven-week summer program. Leadership characteristics of participating students such as communication and critical thinking were measured before and after the summer program. The student population (n=177) was surveyed to explore attitudes, behavior, knowledge, beliefs, and skills before and after the implementation of the project’s activities around tobacco.

results: Contrasted to the comparison group and student population, the photovoice students showed increased skills in leadership, resiliency, communication, problem solving/critical thinking, tobacco knowledge, attitudes, and behavior.  Photovoice participants took a total of 277 digital photos and developed narratives utilizing the SHOWED method; the themes included addiction, harmful effects, reasons why people smoke, special interest of tobacco companies, prevention, and solutions/empowerment.  All students identified key sources of tobacco advertisements within their community.

conclusions: Photovoice can be used as a catalyst for policy reform through advocacy and community mobilization. Data shows a significant increase in leadership skills among the photovoice participants.  The research provides primary evidence on the promising role that photovoice can have for youth education and development activities.