The Voice of a Reference Group in Research With Children

ABSTRACT The aim was to describe how inclusive research was perceived by participants in a reference group within the Swedish research programme Mental Health and Participation in Habilitation for Children and Adolescents with Disabilities. The experience of the reference group was explored through 10 interviews analysed with thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: (1) Information; (2) Motivation and (3) Participation. Inclusive research requires clear communication, defined roles, structural adaptations and addressing power dynamics. This study emphasises the importance of involving children and individuals with disabilities as well as their primary caregivers in research, ultimately making research more inclusive and representative.