Reflection Of Pretivation In The Experience Of Child Observation

As part of my MA Social Work training, I was required to complete 6x1 hour of child observation. The observation is based on the Tavistock model (Sandri, 2012). As soon as the session was concluded, I was required to produce a report of the observation in detail including my reflections and dilemmas.

I arranged to observe Oliver (pseudonym). During the observation I was able to determine that he is the only child to Ava (pseudonym) who is a single mother from a White British background. The observation was in a home setting, but once I conducted the observation on a playground, and once in a children’s library.

I was very nervous before the start of the first session. Consequently, I familiarized myself with some of the literature concerning the observation. Nevertheless, I was apprehensive about intruding into the family’s personal space, and how Mom and child will respond to my presence. Also, I was anxious being confronted by other parents/guardians on the playground where the initial visit took place about the purpose of my ‘lingering’ as I was the only person present without a child. Soon I came to the realisation however, that Ava’s participation is voluntary, and I became more relaxed.

After I obtained written consent from Ava

I gained confidence in my skills. Consequently, the last few sessions became more relaxed and enjoyable. I became accustomed to setting and managing my boundaries in a professional manner in line with the Professional Capability Framework requirements (PCF, 2012). I believe this was due to some key factors. I also had to present one of my observation reports in my seminar group. Not only did I get constructive feedback from my peers, but I also gained some insight into some key issues concerning the observation. This weekly seminar also enabled me to raise issues or concerns I encountered during the sessions such as what to do when Mom changes Oliver’s