Teacher Narratives of Young People Who Show Sexually Harmful Behaviour

Young people who show sexually harmful behaviour is a growing phenomenon. There is a host of research into the characteristics of young people and effective interventions yet there is little if any research into the phenomenon within schools.
Underpinned by a social constructionist epistemology this study asks what narratives are available to talk about this phenomenon within schools and how adults in school view their role and the role of the school context.
Using a focus group approach this study explores the narratives of a group of adults working in an inner city secondary school. Using thematic analysis, three narratives were interpreted from the group sessions; normal and not normal, identity of young people who show SHB and professional and personal voice. In addition, a theme of uncertainty was interpreted within each theme which offered insight into dilemmas and tensions in the narratives.
Teachers in this study were positive about the role of school and recognised a role in supporting holistic needs of these young people. Future ways of working are discussed in relation to schools, teachers and educational psychologists.