Justine Schneider, Antony Arthur, Gillian Doody, Jayne Simpson and Peter Jones
Social capital is a complex and multidimensional construct, which has been used widely in the social sciences, and which focuses attention on non‐monetary resources and…
Abstract
Social capital is a complex and multidimensional construct, which has been used widely in the social sciences, and which focuses attention on non‐monetary resources and relationships. The aim of this analysis study was to test the feasibility of deriving social capital variables from an epidemiological dataset, to explore associations between social capital and psychosis and to investigate the utility of the concept for understanding and treating mental illness. We set out to derive social capital variables from an existing epidemiological study, and tested their associations with first episode psychosis. Associations were found between psychosis and one form of social capital, active engagement in social activities. We conclude that social capital is a promising construct that can be utilised in analysing social dimensions of mental illness. Secondary analysis is possible, but longitudinal surveys with comprehensive measures of social capital and mental health are needed.
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After briefly reviewing the past history of Bayesian econometrics and Alan Greenspan's (2004) recent description of his use of Bayesian methods in managing policy-making risk…
Abstract
After briefly reviewing the past history of Bayesian econometrics and Alan Greenspan's (2004) recent description of his use of Bayesian methods in managing policy-making risk, some of the issues and needs that he mentions are discussed and linked to past and present Bayesian econometric research. Then a review of some recent Bayesian econometric research and needs is presented. Finally, some thoughts are presented that relate to the future of Bayesian econometrics.
Tony Wall, Jayne Russell and Neil Moore
The purpose of this paper is to highlight the role of positive emotions in generating workplace impacts and examine it through the application of an adapted appreciative inquiry…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to highlight the role of positive emotions in generating workplace impacts and examine it through the application of an adapted appreciative inquiry process in the context of a work-based project aimed at promoting integrated working under challenging organisational circumstances.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper adopts a case study methodology which highlights how an organisation facing difficult circumstances (such as austerity measures, siloed cultures, constant threats of reorganisation, and requirement to work across occupational boundaries) adapted an appreciative inquiry intervention/method.
Findings
This paper found, first, that the utilisation of appreciative inquiry in the context of an adapted work-based project in difficult organisational circumstances generated positive emotions manifest through a compelling vision and action plans, second, that the impacts (such as a vision) can become entangled and therefore part of the wider ecological context which promotes pathways to such impact, but that, third, there are a various cultural and climate features which may limit the implementation of actions or the continuation of psychological states beyond the time-bound nature of the work-based project.
Practical implications
The paper illustrates how an organisation adapted a form of appreciative inquiry to facilitate organisational change and generated outcomes which were meaningful to the various occupational groupings involved.
Originality/value
This paper offers new evidence and insight into the adaptation of appreciative inquiry under challenging circumstances in the context of a work-based learning project. It also provides a richer picture of how positive emotion can manifest in ways which are meaningful to a localised context.
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Wendy Cukier, Suzanne Gagnon, Laura Mae Lindo, Charity Hannan and Sarah Amato
To explore how Critical Management Studies can be used to frame a strategy to effect change and promote diversity and inclusion in organizations.
Abstract
Purpose
To explore how Critical Management Studies can be used to frame a strategy to effect change and promote diversity and inclusion in organizations.
Design/methodology/approach
Drawing on the experience gained from a large multi-sector action research project aimed at promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in organizations, this chapter proposes a multilayer [Critical] Ecological Model.
Findings
While early critical theorists were committed to effecting change, the rise of post-modern critical theory eroded the ground on which to stand, widening the gap between theory and practice. Secondly, the chapter asserts the importance of linking empirical research and critical theory in order to advance equality seeking projects. Thirdly, the chapter provides a [Critical] Ecological model that bridges theory and action in Critical Management Studies, based partly on experience from a large community-based research project. The need for a multifaceted approach to advance equality and inclusion emerged as a way to bridge ideological differences among actors and academics committed to effecting social change.
Practical implications
By addressing directly the challenges of theoretical rifts as well as differences in research focused on micro, meso and macro levels, the chapter builds a framework to allow different stakeholders – scholars, practitioners, activists and change agents across sectors – to take action in advancing inclusion and equality as well as an understanding of interactions between levels.
Originality/value
While sharing similar goals, many approaches to change are fragmented on the level of analysis and by underlying paradigms. This chapter is unique in its focus on ways to bridge theory and practice and to develop a framework for action that accommodates equality seeking theorists and activists working on several levels.
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Alison McInnes and Neil Ventress
Illicit substance use can have a detrimental effect on a young person's life, abilities, psychosocial well-being, educational participation, attainment and outcomes. It is…
Abstract
Illicit substance use can have a detrimental effect on a young person's life, abilities, psychosocial well-being, educational participation, attainment and outcomes. It is associated with and can lead to increased vulnerability and be a serious safeguarding concern. This chapter explores the concept of illicit substance as a process of ‘normalisation’ among children and young people. It also explores the concept of ‘game playing’, poly and tertiary substance use and considers some of the implications of illicit substance use and of young people becoming involved in ‘County Lines’. Understanding the nature, scale, extent and consequences of illicit substance use, and how young people are portrayed and stigmatised by those around them are important in relation to responding appropriately to need, and in assessing safeguarding concerns. This chapter will also discuss these concerns and conclude by critically considering the implications of illicit substance use for teachers and schools, whilst considering appropriate responses which identify and reduce risk.
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Dean Wilkinson, Jayne Price and Charlene Crossley
The COVID-19 lockdowns (2020–2021) disrupted all aspects of usual functioning of the criminal justice system, the outcomes and impact of which are largely still unknown. The…
Abstract
Purpose
The COVID-19 lockdowns (2020–2021) disrupted all aspects of usual functioning of the criminal justice system, the outcomes and impact of which are largely still unknown. The pandemic has affected individuals across the wider society, this includes a negative impact on the social circumstances of children and young people involved within youth offending services (YOS) (Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation, 2020; Criminal Justice Joint Inspectorates, 2021). This population frequently represents those from marginalised circumstances and are rarely given the opportunity to participate meaningfully in the services they are involved in. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of the young people serving orders with the YOS during Covid19 lockdowns and requirements.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper outlines a creative methodology and method used to uncover the experiences and perceptions of young people undergoing an order within a YOS during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The arts-based approach entailed a novel and creative method using a lyric artist to engage with young people through a virtual platform, supporting them to create lyrics about their experiences of the YOS during this time.
Findings
The artist developed a successful rapport with young people based on familiarity with, and passion for, music. He promoted their strengths, improving their confidence which was perceived to elicit more in-depth perspectives that might not have otherwise been obtained using more traditional methods. As such, the method and methodology outlined developed the young people’s social and communicative skills whilst producing meaningful feedback that can contribute to the YOS recovery plan and thus future of the service.
Practical implications
This paper reports on a novel arts-based research methodology, implemented to capture meaningful data from participants during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Originality/value
This paper reports on a novel arts-based research methodology, implemented to capture meaningful data from participants during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Jayne Price, Dean Wilkinson and Charlene Crossley
This paper aims to explore young peoples’ authentic experiences of youth justice services (YJS) during the Covid-19 pandemic. By adopting the creative arts-based method of lyric…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore young peoples’ authentic experiences of youth justice services (YJS) during the Covid-19 pandemic. By adopting the creative arts-based method of lyric writing, the research team sought to empower participants through collaboration and participation and to facilitate them leading the narrative (Deakin et al., 2020).
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopted a creative arts-based method in which participants worked alongside an artist to generate lyrics that captured their experiences within YJS. Such an approach demonstrated a commitment to participatory, child-first approaches.
Findings
Two main themes were identified: identity and relationships. The young people vocalised resistance to frequent labelling and their ambitions to move away from past criminal identity and behaviour. Relationships with practitioners could be a source of frustration within this but were also highlighted as valuable and supportive.
Research limitations/implications
As data collection was remote, owing to the Covid-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns, the opportunity to develop relationships with young people within the YJS prior to conducting the research was restricted. This approach may have also impacted recruitment of participants. The sessions presented short-term interventions and whilst follow-up sessions were offered, many did not take them up. Although the research sample is small and cannot be considered representative, it allows for a valuable insight into the experiences of young people at a particularly challenging time.
Practical implications
Upon receiving our findings and recommendations, the first YJS research site has sought to further embed a relationship-based practice model and greater creative/participatory socially prescribed psychosocial therapeutic interventions, including music groups and spoken word artists to work with children and young people.
Originality value
This research adds to the growing literature base surrounding creative arts-based research with children and young people for their value towards communication, pro-social identity and development.
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Lucy Bateman, Andrea Flood, Deanna Jayne Gallichan and Leonardo De Pascalis
Insecure and unresolved attachments have been linked to poorer psychological health and interpersonal functioning for people with intellectual disabilities (IDs), but research in…
Abstract
Purpose
Insecure and unresolved attachments have been linked to poorer psychological health and interpersonal functioning for people with intellectual disabilities (IDs), but research in this area is limited, especially for adults. Studies using the Adult Attachment Projective (AAP) have been restricted to clinical samples, where insecure and unresolved attachments are typically more prevalent. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical and non-clinical groups of adults with IDs on the AAP, plus measures of psychological health and interpersonal functioning, to investigate whether group differences found in the typically developing population are also present for adults with IDs.
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional, between-group design was used. Adults with IDs (clinical group n = 11 and non-clinical group n = 13) completed measures of attachment, psychological distress/positive well-being and interpersonal functioning. Attachment classifications were compared in the clinical versus non-clinical groups. Measures of psychological distress, positive well-being and interpersonal functioning were compared between those with insecure-organised versus unresolved classifications.
Findings
No participants were classified as secure, and there were high rates of unresolved attachment. There were no differences between clinical and non-clinical groups with regards to the distribution of insecure-organised (i.e. dismissing or preoccupied) versus unresolved classifications. There were no differences between groups with regards to psychological distress, positive well-being or interpersonal functioning. The authors consider limitations in the method of group differentiation and suggest further research to better understand the development of internal working models of attachment in this population.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of only three to examine attachment state of mind in adults with IDs using the AAP and the first to examine differences between clinical and non-clinical groups.
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Riffat Blouch and Malik Faisal Azeem
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between constructs of employee perception of diversity (EPD) and perceived organizational performance (POP) through…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between constructs of employee perception of diversity (EPD) and perceived organizational performance (POP) through components of organizational justice over different hierarchal levels and also across the private and public healthcare sector organizations. Additionally, this study also examines whether employees from diverse backgrounds vary in their perceptions regarding diversity in healthcare sector of Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from primary sources, that is medical, paramedical and administrative staff (different designations) of both public and private hospitals for analyzing the results. The overall population consisted of 250 respondents and the hypotheses were tested using two-way ANOVA and CAUSALMED procedures. The data were collected during the course of three months in different time slots from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Statistical Analysis Software was used to analyze the data.
Findings
Findings indicate that regardless of their gender or categories, employees recognize diversity positively, but their responses have significant difference over the hierarchal levels. Furthermore, it is found that EPD is positively linked to the POP, and the relationship gets stronger in the presence of perceived organizational justice (POJ).
Research limitations/implications
The study was confined to the healthcare sector, so further studies can be conducted in other sectors. The present study checked the impact of POJ, but other important reasonable factors that can intervene in the relationship between perceived diversity and POP can be studied, such as organizational commitment.
Practical implications
First of all, it is dispensable for the organizations to ensure the positive perception of these initiatives from employees to implement the diversity programs. Second, the management must ensure the presence of all groups of employees to get the right responses for the diversity management initiatives. Third, the healthcare industry of Pakistan needs to be assessed in the context of current study and diversity initiatives should be taken in hiring and retention of the employees.
Originality/value
The presence of employees of healthcare industry across the sector over hierarchal levels will absolutely add value to the existing knowledge on diversity, diversity management, management theory and practice.