Wow! eBook
Mental Health Service Users in Research: Critical Sociological Perspectives
Author(s): Patsy Staddon
- Publisher: Policy Press
- Publication Date: 12 Jun. 2013
- Edition: Illustrated
- Language: English
- Print length: 176 pages
- ISBN-10: 144730733X
- ISBN-13: 9781447307334
Book Description
This book aims to show the value but also the difficulties encountered in the application of ‘insider knowledge’ in service user research. Mental health service users in research considers ways of ‘doing research’ which bring multiple understandings together effectively, and explains the sociological use of autobiography and its relevance. It examines how our identity shapes the knowledge we produce, and asks why voices which challenge contemporary beliefs about health and the role of treatment are often silenced. An imbalance of power and opportunity for service users, and the stigmatising nature of services, are considered as human rights issues. Most of the contributors to the book are service users/survivors as well as academics. Their fields of expertise include LGB issues, racial tensions, and recovering from the shame and stigma of alcoholism. They stress the importance of research approaches which involve mutualities of respect and understanding within the worlds of researcher, clinician and service user/survivor.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“A useful reference book for health care professionals in pre and post qualification training, and for all those interested in service user research.” –Dr Paul Godin
About the Author
Patsy Staddon is a Visiting Fellow at the University of Plymouth, and a survivor researcher in the sociology of alcohol and mental health. She is a member of INVOLVE and Shaping Our Lives, and chairs the service user controlled WIAS (Women’s Independent Alcohol Support).
