Abstract

How do mothers cope with child care and associated problems when, in adversity, they do not gain access to social service support? This book considers the important question of mothers' coping strategies when they are in adversity. Drawing upon the women's own accounts, it focuses not only on what they do themselves to deal with their problems, but how they integrate their own problem solving approaches with the use of supports. It also examines the way in which women cope with their own emotional responses to these problems.

The women themselves, and their own accounts are placed 'centre stage' in this book. In doing this the book is able to create a major development in our understanding of the nature of Prevention, a central concept in welfare provision. Drawing upon Coping theory, and the findings of this study, this book extends and develops the concept of Prevention, creating a multidimensional model in which the actions of the mother herself (and other primary caregivers) are included alongside traditional domains.

It will be of interest to a variety of academic and professional disciplines, including those interested in gender studies, sociology, social policy, as well as social work and health professionals.

This book represents a welcome departure from the conventional way of examining child welfare concerns... The book provides a novel, exciting and challenging approach to the area of prevention and problem solving in various situations of social difficulty and deprivation. The centre stage involvement of the women concerned gives much food for thought in academic and policy circles and offers a welcome alternative to the traditional, paternalistic models of welfare provision. This is an invigorating and refreshing read and a must for those working in the field of social care who want to improve their practice using multi-based eclectic approach which is truly client-centred.
Professional Social Work
Michael Sheppard is Professor of Social Work at the University of Plymouth. He has published widely on the subjects of child care, parenting and mental health.