Imaging the future: theatre and change within the child protection system

Abstract

The use of social pedagogy as a paradigm for critically appraising developments within child and family social work has been largely neglected. This paper outlines the work of Augusto Boal and his adoption of social pedagogy as a method for empowering oppres‐sed social groups in Brazil. It is argued that Boal’s approach can be adapted by using action research techniques to analyse and effect change in situations where child care professionals face daily contradictions in their attempts to both protect children and support families. To demonstrate its relevance to child care practice, a description is provided of how the approach was used with two groups of social work students – one undertaking qualifying training, the other post‐qualifying training. The results of this application suggest a new theoretical framework for practice which aims to establish communicative consensus around the needs of children and a mutual appreciation of roles and responsibilities.

Examining the societal impacts of nanotechnology through simulation: NANO SCENARIO

“…During the engagement, players learn about the problem or situation while acting a role and improvising within the simulated circumstance (Cutler & Hay, 2000). The performative elements (i.e., narrative, mimetic, and improvisational) of participation have been shown to engage citizens with difficult social challenges while exploring different perspectives (Freire, 1978;Spratt, Houston, & Magill, 2000). This manner of participation and engagement affords the opportunity for players to understand issues that are difficult to comprehend without living through the experience (Winham, 1991).…”

Using critical social theory to develop a conceptual framework for comparative social work

“…We are particularly struck, however, by the relevance of Habermas' ideas for an understanding of social work in (late)modernity (Blaug, 1995;Spratt & Houston, 1999;Spratt, Houston & Magill, 2000). In The Theory of Communicative Action, Habermas describes how society can be conceived of in terms of two fundamental domains: the ''lifeworld'' and the ''system''.…”

Developing creative solutions to the problems of children and their families: communicative reason and the use of forum theatre

“…The first day of the programme began with a series of 'trust' exercises, designed to sensitize participants to aspects of their own experiences of oppression.This occurred through the medium of drama, utilizing the senses of touch, sight and hearing. The second day saw the introduction of techniques from image theatre (Spratt et al 2000). During this session participants were encouraged to share the commonality of their own experiences of oppression.…”

“…Building on Habermas's conceptualization of modes of reasoning, the authors proposed that an application of critical theory to the present bureaucratized nature of communication between state representatives and welfare recipients (Howe 1992) might open up ways in which social workers could reconceptualize their practice. In a subsequent issue of this journal, three of the present authors introduced the radical theatre of Augusto Boal as a methodology which might provide an expressive route for social workers seeking to build a practice combining the intellectual analysis of critical theory with new ways of working (Spratt et al 2000). Boal's method recognizes the oppressed status of groups who come to the attention of agents of the state and, through the use of a range of theatrical techniques, introduces strategies to facilitate the conscious recognition of such collective oppressions and develop dialogical ways to address them.…”

“… ABSTRACT The paper represents a further development of work previously reported in this journal by Spratt & Houston (1999) and Spratt et al (2000). The authors have sought to develop ways of understanding current social work with children and families in line with the critical theory of Jurgen Habermas.…”