Action-research as a strategy to develop pregnant women group: the participants' perception

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify the perception of participants regarding the use of the action-research methodology in the development of a group of pregnant women. The group was sponsored by the University of São Paulo's Hospital Universitário. Individual interviews were conducted in order to obtain data from the group's 12 participants. The action-research strategy brought benefits to the development of the group, stimulated participation, promoted the mutual identification of the group members, and responded to specific necessities. Some limitations imposed by the use of the strategy were mentioned and suggestions for improvement were cited. Based on the group members' positive evaluation, the use of the action-research strategy is encouraged.