Translating theory into practice? The implications for practitioners and users and carers

Abstract

This paper examines two very different case scenarios in order to highlight the importance of applying relevant knowledge with and for children, young people and their families. Key issues that are considered in this paper are the ‘fit’ and use of theory in practice. For example: what theoretical perspectives are appropriate in working with children of different ages and sexes, children from different ethnic groups, and children with a wide range of disabilities? How does the professional training and ideology of practitioners from different health and social care backgrounds affect their choice of theory in working with children and families? How do users and carers understand these theoretical perspectives and how are they involved in their own progress?

Keywords:

• children with disabilities
• theoretical perspectives
• asylum seekers
• case studies
• professional practice
• social model

Acknowledgements

In this article the names of those used for illustrative purposes have been changed and specific details anonymised and amended to respect their confidentiality.

I should like to acknowledge the work of Parissa Sextone whose theoretical insights and social work practice informed the case illustration of Adjoa (Sextone 2001).