When two worlds collide: examining the incorporation of speech, language and communication provision within a youth offending setting through a complexity informed realist approach

Redgate, Sam (2020) When two worlds collide: examining the incorporation of speech, language and communication provision within a youth offending setting through a complexity informed realist approach. Doctoral thesis, Northumbria University.

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Abstract

Why is the subject of the thesis important?
Research consistently demonstrates the influence that speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) have on the criminal behaviour of young people with a suggested overlap between behaviour and communication identified as a critical feature in the profile of many young offenders (Law, 2011, Snow & Powell, 2004, Bryan et al., 2007). Within the criminal justice system (CJS) young people with SLCN are considerably over represented; 60-90% compared to 10% of the general population (Hughes et al., 2012). Contact with the CJS exposes young people to a range of experiences which draw heavily on expressive and receptive language skills (including police interviews, court proceedings, therapeutic programs for example). An individual’s SLCN therefore raises barriers to fully comprehending what is happening, what is expected and how to successfully engage with services or conditions set by imposed orders.

How has the research been undertaken?
A complexity informed realist approach was used to frame the research which included mixed methods for data collection, within a case study approach with a local Youth Offending Service (YOS)

What are the main findings of the research?
The findings present a nuanced account of the core generative mechanisms which impact on the implementation of SLCN provision within a YOS setting. They describe elements for inclusion within a service delivery model and also identify key success factors in understanding the impact of such provision.

Why do the research findings matter?
There is a lack of literature regarding the how SLCN provision should be addressed within a YOS context. This research provides a unique contribution to the literature by developing programme theories pertaining to the key aspects of SLCN provision which impact on engagement levels of young people within a YOS setting. In addition, the methodological focus has allowed for an innovative sociological based approach to an often medically focused topic area.

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