The authors describe a participatory research project undertaken by a group of people
with schizophrenia under the guidance of a university researcher. Participatory research
involves members of the research group in meaningful participation in all stages of the
research process. In this study, group members chose the topic—experiences with medical
professionals—and method of data collection—in-depth interviews that they conducted
with each other. They developed and performed a readers’ theater presentation of the results
and their recommendations for how they would like to be treated by medical professionals.
The results indicate that good communication with medical professionals is essential to people
with schizophrenia; it helps them accept the fact that they are ill and learn to live with the
illness. The research offered a transformative experience to group members and is contributing
to change in the practice of health care for people with severe mental illnesses.