Interpreting Residential Life: Values to Practise

Interpreting Residential Life is a 1989 book by James Atherton that provides a framework for residential workers to evaluate their work and understand the underlying social system of residential establishments. It examines how policy and practice relate to each other and reinforce or hinder each other, and offers insights into the working myths of residential staff and the pathways to change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Interpreting Residential Life, first published in 1989, delves into profound inquiries about the functioning of residential establishments. It raises thought-provoking questions such as:

a) What are the underlying factors that drive residential establishments?
b) What lies beneath the surface of the daily routine in these environments?
c) Why is creating and sustaining change within residential settings such a challenging task?
d) How can residential social workers effectively evaluate their work and assess its impact?

To address these critical questions, James Atherton offers a valuable set of tools that empower residential workers to gain insights into their own establishments. Presented in a straightforward and accessible manner, he provides a framework that elucidates the interconnected relationship between policy and practice, highlighting how they either reinforce or hinder each other, both in times of crisis and during routine operations. Atherton takes a holistic approach, examining the entire residential establishment as a social system and focusing on the daily life within it. He demonstrates how values are implicitly embedded in all aspects of practice, shaping the dynamics and outcomes of these environments. By drawing on the experiences of residential staff at various levels, Atherton uncovers the working myths and provides valuable insights into how establishments function. He offers practical ways of understanding the inner workings of these establishments and outlines potential pathways for change.

Interpreting Residential Life is an essential read for students pursuing studies in social work and sociology. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex world of residential environments, providing valuable knowledge and practical strategies for those working in this field. By delving into the underlying factors that drive residential establishments, the book sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by social workers and policymakers alike. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of the residential landscape and contribute to positive change within these communities.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032582276