In this research we examined the processes involved in implementing and maintaining a participatory action research (PAR) project by uncovering how theoretical PAR tenets hold up in the reality of a community-based project addressing immigrants' and refugees' mental health needs. Qualitative data from focus groups with these newcomers were analyzed for thematic content. Findings reveal that active participation is seen as the gateway into a PAR project, whereas knowledge attainment and empowerment are the stimuli for continued participation. The data also suggest that newcomers' motivations to participate in a PAR-oriented project might vary across ethno-cultural groups. Practitioners working in community-based initiatives would do well to appeal to the diversity of motivational factors, while endorsing individual and group strengths.

immigrants Participatory action research (PAR) Refugees Community-based programs mental health and illness

community mental health information processing cultural anthropology immigrant refugee mental health service social change community program motivation interpersonal communication action research human Refugees middle aged Ethnic Groups statistics and numerical data health service ethnic group priority journal research subject refusal to participate Cultural Competency Mental Health Services cultural competence procedures qualitative research Health Services Needs and Demand psychological well being Humans migrant psychology male Emigrants and Immigrants female Behavior cultural factor patient education Article adult patient participation utilization participatory research Community-Based Participatory Research Health Services Accessibility empowerment Power (Psychology) Focus Groups Culture health care delivery participatory action research