Peer-Based Research

Abstract

A benchmark survey provided the initial framework for further investigation of the real-life situation of the children in an urban and a rural area of Kenya. In order to get a more detailed and more reliable picture, after the survey, anthropological research was done in cooperation with the children as peer researchers. It consisted of two phases in which respectively the nature and extent of the violence were documented and in which the avenues for support and redress were studied. Different types of research methods (close to 400 questionnaires, individual semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participative methods using child researchers, written essays, informal conversations and observations) were used. Much of the information on violence against children was collected by the children themselves. While employing the participatory method of involving child researchers, this research succeeded in obtaining unique in-depth information. The research experience was very intrusive, but by establishing confidentiality and guaranteeing anonymity, children revealed much of their inner life turbulence.