Exploring Gendered Health Inequities Through Group Object Narrative: A Case Study of the Swat Valley

Our study describes the utility of group object narrative to understand the experiences of women affected by humanitarian crises. Drawing on a case study from the Swat Valley, Pakistan, we illustrate how objects act as an entry point to understand participants gendered experiences of the 2022 floods. Our findings demonstrate how this method can foster solidarity among participants, illuminate oft overlooked gender-specific challenges, and facilitate the development of practical solutions. By centering the voices of participants, we describe how group object narrative can disrupt existing power structures and amplify the voices of marginalized groups, especially women. This methodology provides a culturally appropriate, decolonial alternative to traditional research approaches, empowering participants to co-create narratives and pinpoint critical issues. The insights gained hold significant implications for public health research and practice. In particular, group object narrative can generate findings that directly translate into practice, and actionable change.