Working with parents: Using narrative therapy to work towards genuine partnership

• Published in: Educational and child psychology Vol. 31; no. 4; pp. 9 - 17
• Main Authors: McQueen, Catherine, Hobbs, Charmian
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.12.2014
• ISSN: 0267-1611; 2396-8702
• DOI: 10.53841/bpsecp.2014.31.4.9

Background: There is convincing research evidence of the value of working in partnership with parents to support the well-being and development of children and young people. Much of this research has looked at outcomes for children. At the same time research has demonstrated that partnership is not easy to achieve in relationships between parents and professionals, with many examples of the disempowerment of parents. Aim: This paper explores a way of working that might address the differential power relationship between professionals and parents, using activity theory to illustrate the process. Rationale/Approach: Drawing on a social constructionist perspective and the practice of narrative therapy, the paper analyses the authors’ experience of a series of narrative conversations with parents who volunteered to work with them around a concern. The conversations took place over several weeks and were further developed through outsider witness practice. Findings: This form of a narrative conversation provided an opportunity for the parents to examine, reflect and give recognition to their own resources and skills as a couple and as individuals. Conclusion: This is one example of practitioner research undertaken to explore a different way of working with parents and as such it is a contribution to the ongoing dialogue about how to achieve genuine partnership with parents.