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There is a growing interest in the use of psycho-social research methods but what is involved when researchers get up close and personal to human feelings, activities and interactions in a social work setting?
This book brings together the work of academics, post-doctoral and doctoral researchers to lift the lid on psycho-social approaches in practice. Each chapter draws on empirical research to demonstrate how creative and reflexive psycho-social methods – ranging from arts-based inquiry to voice-centred analysis – can generate rich insights into lived experience and deepen understanding of professional relationships, organisational life and the everyday challenges of social work.
The book features:
• Critical reflections on the affordances and challenges of diverse psycho-social research methods;
• ‘Core principles and practices to consider’ boxes at the end of each chapter for practical application; and
• Case studies demonstrating how psycho-social methods operate in real-world research settings.
This accessibly-written resource provides readers with practical guidance, critical reflection and frameworks that promote both intellectual and professional development.
Gillian Ruch is Emeritus Professor of Social Work at the University of Sussex.
Michelle Lefevre is Professor of Social Work at the University of Sussex. She previously trained and practised as a social worker and arts psychotherapist, particularly in the context of safeguarding.
Part I: Introduction
1. Introducing Psychosocial Practice-Near Research - Michelle Lefevre and Gillian Ruch
2. The Conceptual Frameworks of Psychosocial Practice-Near Research - Gillian Ruch
Part II: The Reflexive Practitioner-Researcher
3. Beginning the Doctoral Journey - Ben O’Farrell
4. The Reluctant Autoethnographer - Rachel Larkin
5. An Autoethnographic Exploration of Black Women’s Experience in Leadership - Shantel Thomas
Part III: Observation
6. Observation and Practice-Near Social Work Research - Helen Hingley-Jones
7. Getting Closer to the Data - Paul Dugmore
8. Activating the Mind's Eye - Louise Sims
Part IV: Creative and Participatory Methods
9. Co-Developing the ‘Reflect, Draw, Write, Talk’ Method - Jo Williams
10. Using Music and Imagery to Open Up Self-Narratives with Young People - Matt Ellis
11. The Generative Potential of Metaphors - Rachael Owens
12. Unveiling the Emotional Landscape - Makhan Shergill
13. Powerful Possibilities of Poetic Methods - Amy Lynch
Part V: Conclusion
14. Critical Reflections and Conclusion - Gillian Ruch and Michelle Lefevre