The role and influence of key informants in community-engaged research: A critical perspective

November 19, 2015

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This article includes the authors’ reflections on the unique role and purpose of key informants in community-engaged research. Taking a critical social science perspective, they consider the value and challenges involved in selecting and relying on key informants to represent the community and its perspectives. Because key informants inhabit social and professional roles in communities, they are often sought by researchers to provide knowledge and information related to health promotion and education within a community. However, their identification and selection – and their perspectives about what is important and would work best for a community – must be carefully considered. The authors conclude this article with several recommendations for enhancing community engagement in translational research.

McKenna, S. A., & Main, D. S. (2013). The role and influence of key informants in community-engaged research: A critical perspective. Action Research, 11(2), 113-124.