Capturing recovery capital: using photovoice to unravel recovery and desistance

Abstract Purpose Photovoice, a community-based participatory research strategy, allows participants to take up an active role in data collection by discussing their views and life (conditions) based on the photographs they have taken. In this methodological article, we present a case study in which photovoice was used to unravel the meaning of recovery capital. Recovery capital is an overarching concept to understand the personal, social and community resources helping people to recover. Method Seven participants in recovery from drug use and desistance from offending took photographs of their lived experiences related to recovery capital. During face-to-face interviews, these photographs were discussed, focusing on recovery capital components. Results The case study led to in-depth insights into the photographs’ meanings and stories from the point of view of the participants. Conclusion This contribution investigates the role of photovoice in expanding our understanding of recovery capital. By means of a case study we highlight the several steps taken by the researcher and the advantages and shortcomings of this method. It appears that photovoice offers great value for eliciting insights in the lived experiences of participants and for participants to grow empowerment and agency. This article hopes to inspire researchers to consider photovoice for their (future) research projects.