A recent study delving into adolescents’ experiences of participating in research on violence has highlighted a complex range of emotions felt by young participants from Romania, South Africa, and the Philippines. The study, conducted across diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, sought to understand how adolescents perceive and emotionally respond to sensitive questions about violence. The findings, published in the journal Child Abuse & Neglect, suggest that while some adolescents experience distress, many also find the process empowering and reflective, providing a nuanced understanding of their involvement in such research.

The research, involving 53 adolescents aged 10 to 17, used semi-structured interviews and creative methods such as drawings and emoji stickers to explore their feelings. Participants were asked to share their thoughts and emotions while responding to a self-report questionnaire on violence. The responses revealed a tapestry of emotions ranging from anger and sadness to relief and even joy.

One 10-year-old boy from the Philippines exemplified this range by marking his questionnaire with emoji stickers indicating sadness, anger, happiness, and excitement. His drawing of a smiling face at the end of the questionnaire suggested a sense of relief and satisfaction after completing the exercise. Many participants, who described feeling “comfortable and uncomfortable” throughout the process, echoed this multilayered emotional experience.

Interestingly, the study found that the context and relational dynamics between the interviewer and the participant played a crucial role in shaping these emotional experiences. For example, some adolescents expressed initial apprehension about the content of the questionnaire, fearing judgement or misunderstanding. However, these fears often subsided as the interview progressed, with the interviewer providing reassurance and a safe space for disclosure.

In South Africa, participants frequently mentioned how the research helped them articulate their experiences and gain clarity on the issues they faced. A 15-year-old girl from South Africa, who had endured violence at home, expressed that answering the questions felt like a necessary process to obtain help and move past her trauma. Similarly, a 17-year-old boy from Romania reflected on the questionnaire’s ability to raise awareness, stating that it prompted him to consider the prevalence of violence in society, something he had previously overlooked.

While many adolescents reported feeling sad or angry when recalling past traumatic events, these emotions were often coupled with a sense of catharsis. The study found that discussing their experiences in a structured and supportive environment allowed these young participants to process their feelings and, in some cases, find a sense of closure.

But not all participants experienced positive emotions. Some adolescents, particularly younger girls, reported feeling shy, embarrassed, or even indifferent during the interviews. These reactions were most commonly associated with questions about sexual violence, which many found difficult to discuss.

The study underscores the importance of considering the emotional complexity of adolescents when involving them in research on sensitive topics. The findings suggest that while such research can trigger distress, it also has the potential to empower young people by providing them with a platform to share their experiences and, in doing so, gain a better understanding of their own lives.