Using photographic methods in the mental health field: An integrative review

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Methods using production of photographs have been explored as alternative instruments of qualitative research and psychological intervention. However, there is still little consensus in their designations and procedures. In this context, this work presents an integrative review aimed at investigating the use of photographic methods in the field of mental health over the last 20 years. The research was conducted on the LILACS, Psycnet, PubMed, SciELO, and Web of Science databases. Forty-nine articles were accepted and 457 rejected. Four methods were identified: Photovoice, PhotoInstrument, Autophotography and Photo elicitation. As potential aspects, the use of photography means exploring and sharing personal experiences, assisting health professionals, and creating empowerment. As challenge aspects, the recent feature of photographic methods used in the field of mental health were highlighted, counting on the prevalence of small and non-generable samples, multiple data analysis methodologies and inappropriate uses of designations regarding the procedures that were performed.