Spotlight Section: The Participatory Ranking Methodology (PRM)

Welcome to the Spotlight Section, where we highlight useful tools, trends, and research in the field of MHPSS. This column is dedicated to keeping our network up-to-date with the latest developments and practical resources, with the goal of sharing information that inspires fresh ideas and fosters innovation.

This month, we want to spotlight a rapid mixed-methods participatory approach called the Participatory Ranking Methodology (PRM). PRM is particularly well-suited for use in emergencies, as it can provide rich data about local priorities and perspectives that can be rapidly quantified and analyzed.

PRM can be used to conduct rapid assessments of key needs and resources in ways that center the priorities of people affected by emergencies. When culturally and contextually valid measurement tools are not available, it can also be used to develop participatory indicators for measuring needs and change over time. Kühhas and colleagues successfully applied PRM in 2021 to develop participatory indicators for psychosocial wellbeing. Similarly, Lindsay Stark and colleagues used PRM in 2009 to develop culturally relevant indicators of reintegration of girls formally associated with armed group in Sierra Leone.

In collaboration with Save the Children Jordan, Save the Children UK and the Arsenal Foundation, the MHPSS Collaborative is currently using PRM in context of a sports-based psychosocial program for Syrian children and young people in the Za’atari refugee camp in Jordan. Alongside football and resilience coaching, the program includes gender-focused activities designed to challenge gender norms and stereotypes. Through PRM, we aim to identify the gender-related priorities of children, youth, caregivers, and the broader community, which can then inform the program and its evaluation. For more information, please reach out to Deepali Pavagadhi (MHPSS and Research Advisor) at depa@redbarnet.dk

To learn more about PRM, please refer to the guide developed by Alastair Ager and colleagues: https://library.alnap.org/system/files/content/resource/files/main/prmmanual-v1-1.pdf