Participatory photo mapping (PPM): Exploring an integrated method for health and place research with young people

In this manuscript we detail the application and utility of participatory photo mapping (PPM) for studying the implications of place for the health of children. PPM is a transdisciplinary approach that integrates digital tools, narrative interviewing and participatory protocols in order to produce knowledge that can be shared and acted upon by community-based health research partnerships. In discussing the application, strengths, and weaknesses of this method, we relate our own experiences with using PPM for a recent study of neighborhood health and safety that involved young people from a variety of age groups in Madison, Wisconsin. The resultant maps were persuasive presentation tools and provided guidance for community-based interventions.