Participation and empowerment are important components in intervention studies, in order to establish participant satisfaction and to strengthen sustainability. These important aspects were already mentioned in the Ottawa Charter (ratified in 1986). So far, participatory research methods are widely used especially in Anglo-American and Scandinavian countries. Thus, the transfer of scientifically proven participatory research methods to the German setting is recommended. In addition, the adaptation of evidence-based, theory-driven and quality-ensured projects is requested for local settings. The main scientific theme of this cumulative thesis is the analysis and evaluation of participation as a core element in prevention and health promotion...