This study aimed to review photovoice research conducted with individuals with severe mental illness, focusing on methodological characteristics, applications, and major themes. A comprehensive search was conducted looking for studies published up to ...
This study aimed to review photovoice research conducted with individuals with severe mental illness, focusing on methodological characteristics, applications, and major themes. A comprehensive search was conducted looking for studies published up to February 2022 in international (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL) and domestic databases (DBpia, RISS, KISS). Search terms included “photovoice,” “photo-elicitation,” and “mental illness.” Inclusion criteria were studies involving adults aged 18 years or older diagnosed with severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, those being treated using photovoice or photo-based qualitative methods, and published in English or Korean. Following PRISMA guidelines, 23 studies were selected and analyzed. Of the selected studies, two were domestic and 21 international. Most participants were community-dwelling individuals with severe mental illness. Photovoice was identified as an effective participatory method that allowed participants to visually express experiences, emotions, and social perspectives. Photovoice facilitates self-expression and empowerment among individuals with mental illness. Future research should expand its application across diverse cultural and clinical contexts, strengthen ethical standards, while developing photovoice-based programs to promote recovery and social inclusion.