This book explores social constructionism and the language of mental distress. Mental health research has traditionally been dominated by genetic and biomedical explanations that provide only partial explanations. However, process research that utilises qualitative methods has grown in popularity. Situated within this new strand of research, the authors examine and critically assess some of the different contributions that social constructionism has made to the study of mental distress and...

This accessible text supports health practitioners undertaking qualitative research to inform clinical practice, guiding readers through the decision-making process from planning and proposing, through data collection, to dissemination and impact. Qualitative research makes an important contribution to the health evidence base, including improving service provision, practitioner communication, and patient safety, as well as informing policies, generating important knowledge about health, a...

This textbook uniquely highlights the particular complexities of working systemically with couples and families with children. It is designed to be student and practitioner oriented by drawing on real world examples of therapeutic encounters in mental health settings to illustrate how theory can inform practice.Good communication is the cornerstone of good clinical practice and is foundational for building therapeutic alliance. Although therapists and counsellors are often highly s...

This book provides a practical, pedagogical perspective on conducting qualitative interviews with children and young people.From designing and choosing the type of interview through to planning, structuring, conducting, and analysing them this book is a complete toolkit. Drawing upon real-world examples and researchers′ anecdotes, the authors combine both theoretical background and practical advice to introduce common issues and procedures and to help you undertake your own intervie...

Thought-provoking, pertinent and engaging, this book provides an overview of every aspect of carrying out research with children. It is unique in its particular focus on vulnerable groups of children such as those with mental-health problems, physical health problems and learning disabilities, along with young offenders and looked after children.The book helpfully addresses each stage of the research process:-Part I introduces the main elements of doing research with childr...

Can moderated screen time actually have a positive impact on young people’s mental health?With over 30 expert contributors spanning a range of disciplines including psychology, education and communications, as well as young people′s own perspectives, this book dispels some of the myths that surround young people’s use of digital media and covers important topics ranging from safeguarding, to digital citizenship and the fear of missing out.Using reflective activities, practi...

Having a child with autism presents many hard questions: What will my child’s life look like if he or she never gains maturity and independence? How will allowing my child to transition to a group home affect the family? What will happen when I can no longer take care of my child because I’m too old? What will happen if my child outlives me?The good news is that there is hope. If you as a parent become an advocate for your loved one with special needs, you can answer these and many...

Justin, a happy boy with a super sunny smile, is ready to take on any challenge. As he grows, he realizes he is not like other children. Through a journey of self discovery, he discovers that God made him unique and special. He has a plan for every one of His children. Through Justin’s actions and Malina’s artwork, children remember that God loves each of us just as we are.

Improving Communication in Mental Health Settings draws on empirical studies of real-world settings to demonstrate contemporary practice-based evidence, providing effective strategies for communicating with patients/clients in mental health settings.The book integrates clinical experience and language-based evidence drawn from qualitative research. Drawing on studies that utilize scientific language-based approaches such as discourse and conversation analysis, it focuses o...

Researching child and adolescent mental health can be a daunting task, but with the right practical skills and knowledge your students can transform the way they work with children and young people, giving them a ‘voice’ through their research in the wider community.Michelle O′Reilly and Nikki Parker combine their clinical, academic and research expertise to take your students step-by-step through each stage of the research process. From first inception to data collection and disse...

This distinctive, nuanced book addresses the more complex theoretical issues embedded in the qualitative research paradigm. Adopting a reflective stance that emphasises the role of the researcher it carefully avoids a standardised ‘tick box’ approach to methods.Throughout each chapter, theory is powerfully and persuasively interwoven as its impact on practical topics such as data management and safety in the field is discussed. O′Reilly and Kiyimba bring an authority and clarity to...

Taking up a social constructionist position, this book illustrates the social and cultural construction of autism as made visible in everyday, educational, institutional and historical discourses, alongside a careful consideration of the bodily and material realities of embodied differences. The authors highlight the economic consequences of a disabling culture, and explore how autism fits within broader arguments related to normality, abnormality and stigma. To do this, they provide a the...