Residential Childcare Workers’ Experiences of Behaviours that Challenge

Abstract

Background: The role of Residential Childcare Workers (RCWs) in the UK is pivotal in providing support to children and young people in care who have complex emotional and behavioural needs. Behaviours that challenge (BTC) present a multifaceted issue which has been shown to significantly impact on the emotional well-being of RCWs (Kor et al., 2021). However, an understanding of how RCWs make sense of BTC is theoretically and empirically underdeveloped. Thus, the present study aimed to conduct an in-depth exploration of RCWs’ experiences of behaviours that challenge, uncovering their individual perspectives, interpretations, and responses to such behaviours, in order to identify effective strategies for supporting RCWs in their role. Method: This qualitative study utilised semi-structured interviews to explore the subjective experiences of eight RCWs in the UK. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (Smith & Nizza, 2022). Results: The findings highlighted the profoundly personal and relational nature of RCWs’ experiences when confronted with BTC. The study provides an in-depth exploration of the diverse and nuanced perceptions of BTC as experienced by RCWs. It delves into the various coping strategies employed by RCWs in response to BTC and examines the barriers they encounter while supporting children and young people in care. Conclusion: The findings have important implications for residential childcare practice in the UK. Recommendations for practice have been suggested, emphasising the need for selfreflective practice, peer support and ongoing training and development.