Lessons learned conducting breastfeeding intervention research in two northern plains tribal communities

Aim: The overall purpose of this article was to describe the challenges and benefits of conducting breastfeeding intervention research with two Native American Tribal communities. Methods: A focus group with an interpretive approach was used to collect data within this qualitative study as a means of incorporating a complex, holistic, subjective interpretation of the case managers' perceptions and experiences. In addition, researchers' field notes were used. Findings are discussed in relation to Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Framework. Results: Themes that emerged during the focus group discussions were related to innovation, relative advantage, complexity, compatibility, trialability, and observability. Conclusions: Conducting research in Native American Tribal communities was both enriching and challenging. The research protocol needs to be culturally appropriate, and complex components need to be videotaped for review on an ongoing basis. Time constraints of case managers need to be examined prior to development of the research protocol.