ABSTRACT
The discussion in the seminar group moved away from Liam’s experience and became critical of the nursery workers, whom they felt should have been doing more to engage Liam and to help his mother to be more attentive. The observation and the group’s discussion had implications for work with Liam’s mother and the nursery staff. The courses’ common, overall approach included developing observational skills, providing relevant reading, linking theory to practice, and encouraging active participation and opportunities to reflect on practice. Whereas many course participants had received training in, and regularly used, observation in social work practice, the concept of psychoanalytic observation was new and different. This model of observation sits particularly well with the principles of reflective practice recommended in the Eileen Munro Review reports. Munro recommended a move away from an emphasis on bureaucratic aspects of social work practice to an emphasis on the importance of forming relationships with children and families.
