Exploring the effects of research involvement on research assistants: their changing perceptions after conducting a mental health study

Research assistants play a critical role in the creation and advancement of scientific knowledge. Yet, little is known about how their involvement in the research process shapes their own perspectives. The current study examined how participation in a mental health stigma research project influenced Ghanaian research assistants’ perceptions and awareness of mental health. Two focus groups were conducted with research assistants who had engaged in data collection for a larger study investigating mental health-related stigma in Ghana. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, and the data analysis process followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach to thematic analysis. Findings indicated that misconceptions about mental health were prevalent among participants prior to their involvement in mental health research. By engaging in survey data collection, the research assistants developed more holistic conceptualizations of mental health. These findings suggest that active involvement in research can serve as an educational tool to improve mental health literacy in Ghana. Thus, it is imperative that mental health researchers consider the broader direct and indirect implications of research assistants’ involvement in the research process, including as a tool for mental health education and advocacy.