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. It shows how biographical methods can improve theoretical understanding of professional practice, as well as enrich the learning and development of professionals, and promote more meaningful and creative practitioner-service user relationships. The book reviews applications of biographical methods in bo ... More

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. It shows how biographical methods can improve theoretical understanding of professional practice, as well as enrich the learning and development of professionals, and promote more meaningful and creative practitioner-service user relationships. The book 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. In addition, it explores the impact on professional 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. The book critically evaluates subjective and reflexive processes in interactions between researchers, practitioners and users of services, and considers the institutional arrangements and cultural contexts which support effective and sensitive interventions and encourage change in the lives of individuals.