Facilitation strategies for conducting focus groups attending to issues of power

ABSTRACT Focus groups are a common and popular qualitative research method within the field of psychology. While ample literature exists regarding designing, recruiting, and conducting focus groups, there is less research surrounding the facilitation techniques needed to solicit a data-rich, participatory, and authentic group dialogue while attending to power. Contributing to literature addressing this gap, this manuscript provides tangible steps surrounding facilitating focus groups guided by social constructivist and transformative epistemological orientations. These practices encompass: a) fostering a climate seeking equitable participation, b) engaging in critical self-reflexivity, and c) capturing moments of convergence and divergence in perspectives. Each strategy will be illustrated from a qualitative research project with sixth and seventh graders, yet, these practices are translatable and can be employed with diverse populations.