Instrument for evaluating dimensions of group dynamics within community-based participatory research partnerships

We describe the development, adaptation, and use of evaluation approaches assessing key dimensions of group partnerships. A review of relevant literature describes the rationale for the evaluation of partnership dynamics, and the selection of relevant dimensions for evaluation and assessment. Three case studies are presented to illustrate the use of this evaluation instrument in community-based participatory research partnerships to assess key dimensions of partnership process. The use of evaluation results in self-assessment and partnership development are described and lessons learned in the application of these results are discussed. Finally, we discuss the potential, challenges, and areas for further development of evaluation tools to assess group dynamics in partnership efforts. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.