About the book

'If you want to know what's wrong with someone, ask them - they may tell you!' Kelly, in Bannister and Fransella (1986) This quote from George Kelly, originator of Personal Construct Psychology, illustrates with humour his important theory that each one of us has developed an individual structure for our thinking, feeling and understanding and we operate within that structure. In order to make sense of the behaviour of another person we have to begin by understanding his or her personal constructs, which means asking. Simon Burnham uses and teaches this theory and has written a practical book which; introduces the theory in an accessible way provides exercises to illustrate the process explains how to use the method in support and interview sessions with young people extends its use into the practice of advocacy and representation. Readers attempting to understand the views and motivations of children and young people, and representing or explaining these views to others, will find that this book offers valuable practical ways to enhance the work they do.The book sets out to influence practice and includes a PowerPoint interview and assessment session which can be delivered to the client via a laptop and also printed to provide a record for interviewer and young person.