Biographical Methods and Professional Practice

The turn to biographical methods in social science is yielding a rich harvest of research outcomes and invigorating the relationship between policy and practice. This book uses a range of interpretive approaches to reveal the dynamics of service users' and professionals' individual experiences and life-worlds. It shows how biographical methods can improve theoretical understanding of professional practice, as well as enrich the learning and development or professionals, and promote more meaningful and creative practitioner-service user relationships.Biographical methods and professional practice:reviews applications of biographical methods in both policy and practice in a range of professional contexts, from health and social care to education and employment;explores the impact on proffesional practice of social change in three main arenas: transformation from Eastern to Western types of society in Europe, major shifts in social and welfare principles, experiences of immigration and of new cultural diversity;critically evaluates subjective and reflexive processes in interactions between researchers, practitioners and users of services;considers the institutional arrangements and cultural contexts which supporteffective and sensitive interventions and which support and encourage change in the lives of individuals.With contributions from leading international experts, it provides a valuable comparative perspective. Researchers, policy analysts and practitioners, postgraduate students, teachers and trainers will find this book a stimulating read.