This qualitative study explores the perceptions of young people about involving them in mental health research.

This piece discusses the tension between the expectations of professional researchers and community members, and argues for a more empowering approach to participatory research.

This paper identifies barriers to authentic patient engagement roles in the context of youth mental health research; considers how key concepts of relational empowerment, fluidity, and flexibility can address some of these barriers; and provides tangible recommendations for implementing authentic patient engagement throughout the research process.