Introduction
In the realm of online therapy services, understanding the dynamics of co-design processes is crucial for creating impactful interventions. The recent study, "Sense of Psychological Ownership in Co-Design Processes: A Case Study," offers valuable insights into how psychological ownership can be fostered among participants in collaborative projects. This blog aims to distill the findings of this research to help practitioners enhance their skills and encourage further exploration in this area.
Key Findings from the Research
The study by Juel et al. (2023) identifies two distinct phases in the development of psychological ownership among participants involved in a collaborative website design process. Initially, only researchers and the website designer exhibited ownership, facilitated by their preparatory work. However, as the workshops progressed, service users—parents of children with suicidal behavior and a counselor—began to develop a sense of ownership through their active participation in design activities.
Implications for Practitioners
Understanding the concept of psychological ownership is vital for practitioners involved in participatory research and co-design processes. Here are some practical takeaways:
- Facilitate Early Engagement: Encourage service users to engage early in the design process. This can help balance power dynamics and ensure that their contributions are valued from the outset.
- Promote Active Participation: Design activities that allow service users to exert control and invest personally in the process. This could include decision-making roles or opportunities to share personal experiences.
- Build a Collaborative Environment: Create a safe and supportive environment where all participants feel comfortable sharing their insights and feedback. This can foster a sense of community and shared ownership.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides a foundational understanding of psychological ownership in co-design, there is a need for further research to explore its dynamics in different contexts. Practitioners are encouraged to investigate how these findings can be applied to other areas of healthcare and education, particularly in online therapy settings like those offered by TinyEYE.
Conclusion
By understanding and implementing the principles of psychological ownership, practitioners can enhance the effectiveness of co-design processes and improve outcomes for service users. This approach not only empowers participants but also enriches the collaborative process, leading to more meaningful and impactful interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Sense of psychological ownership in co-design processes: A case study.
