Pankowiak, Aurélie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0178-513X (2025) The inclusion of lived experience knowledge in research on the prevention of child abuse in sport. In: The 1st International Congress for Safe Sport Research (ICSSR 2025), 18 Jun 2025 - 20 Jun 2025, Québec City Convention Centre, Canada.

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to introduce the concept of lived experience knowledge, specifically from individuals who have experienced diverse forms of child abuse in sport and its ongoing consequences. It also explores the value of this knowledge and offers practical principles to support the participatory engagement of people with lived experience in research, in ways that are meaningful, safe and inclusive. Drawing on my research into child abuse prevention in community sport, I integrate insights from mental health research, community participation methods and critical theory, while weaving in reflections from my own experience of child abuse in sport and its lasting impact. My hope is that the paper itself serves as a demonstration of the approach I encourage. The first section defines lived experience knowledge, as a valid form of knowledge that is grounded in epistemic justice and can meaningfully contribute to decision-making in research projects. I then examine the theoretical, political, ethical, and practical values of involving people with lived experience of violence in sport in research. Finally, I introduce principles for their genuine and ethical inclusion as active contributors. It is my observation that child abuse prevention in sport research in sport lacks a critical and participatory lens. By positioning lived experience as a valid and valuable form of expertise, this paper encourages a shift toward more inclusive, justice-oriented research practices in violence in sport prevention research. I invite researchers to critically reflect on whose perspectives most influence research questions and outcomes, and to consider how power dynamics, within research, sport as well as within ‘lived experience groups’, can influence the trust placed in researchers by those most affected, especially when their lived experience is used to generate evidence. Preferred citation : Pankowiak, A. 2025 (June 18-20). The inclusion of lived experience knowledge in research on the prevention of child abuse in sport. [Plenary presentation] 1st International Congress for Safe Sport Research (ICSSR 2025), Pre-congress for the scientific community. Québec City Convention Centre, Canada. https://doi.org/10.26196/bqcw-5p6

Search Google Scholar

Repository staff login