A grounded theory of conflict between child care counsellors and adolescents in a juvenile justice facility
Date
2000
Authors
Woodman, Lesley Ann
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Abstract
This grounded theory study explored the reported experiences of conflict between child care counsellors and adolescents within a juvenile justice program for young offenders. In particular, this research accessed the meanings that each party attributes to their experience of conflict, especially as it relates to the exercise of power. A critical theory lens was used to direct the guided conversations with participants. The nature of the influence exerted by the organizational system on the occurrence of conflict between the two and the meaning the participants attributed to that conflict was explored. Through grounded theory analysis the researcher develops a substantive theory of conflict with respect to the perception or expression of power between adolescents and counsellors and how conflict influences each parties experience of self and their roles within the juvenile justice setting. The application of this theory to practice and policy is discussed and indications for future research suggested. Practitioners are encouraged to broaden their understanding of the phenomenon of adolescents who act-out to include an appraisal of how systems can and do contribute to this phenomenon.