User involvement in health research: Do users feel psychological ownership?

User involvement in health research is growing, but how do users experience ownership in such collaborations? A new case study from a co-creation project—in which researchers, users, and a web designer jointly developed a website—sheds light on how and when a sense of psychological ownership arises among participants. The study offers valuable insight into group dynamics and collaborative processes.

The study is based on audio recordings from a series of workshops involving parents of children with suicidal thoughts and a counselor who participated as users. The data was thematically analyzed with a focus on the development of psychological ownership.

Researchers identified two phases: In the first phase—the early design phase—ownership was primarily expressed by the researchers and the web designer, due to their prior involvement and professional background. In the second phase—the co-creative design phase—users gradually began to develop ownership, supported by specific exercises during the workshops. These activities enabled users to influence decisions, engage personally, and gain insight into both the process and the final product. This ownership was evident in their language and how they referred to the website.

Psychological ownership develops differently, depending on context and role. If this is not acknowledged, it can create an imbalance in group collaborations. This study highlights that intentionally designing participation is crucial for ensuring that all parties experience ownership and true co-ownership in research processes.