Pamela J Henry

The Experience of Nonresidential Stepmothers

Despite the growing body of research examining the experience of stepparents, very little is known about the unique experience of nonresidential stepparents. This research examined the experience of nonresidential stepmothers (N = 10) using semistructured interviews. Thematic content analysis identified 2 principal themes. Those themes were perceived control (with the subtheme of visitation and parenting and financial matters) and psychological and physical well-being. The perceived inability to control parenting practices during periods of visitation and financial matters associated with the payment of child support generated a sense of powerlessness, anger, and resentment that manifested in depression. Implications for family service providers and clinicians working with stepfamilies are discussed.

Ensuring the validity of police use of force training

Abstract This research examined the skills and abilities required of officers to effectively manage situations where the use of force may be required. The research also considered the nature of training required to facilitate the development of these skills/abilities. Seventy Western Australia Police officers participated in focus groups. Identified skills/abilities fell into seven categories: Aware, Assess, Approach, Act, Automatic, Appraise and Adapt. With regard to developing proficiency in these skills, officers emphasised the importance of relevant, applied and dynamic training, debriefing and the use of scenarios/role plays. The research highlights the need to change the scope of annual refresher training from the appropriate and effective application of force to the effective management of situations in which the use of force may be required, in their entirety. Findings also highlight the need to change the focus of training from performance and assessment to continued skill development (i.e. practice and learning).

The inclusion of children in family dispute resolution in australia: Balancing welfare versus rights principles

Over the course of the 2000s, Australia has been at the international forefront of implementing child-inclusive services to families undergoing separation (Birnbaum, 2009). Around the world, various policy initiatives and research projects have suggested that the direct participation of children in family separation processes correctly recognises the child’s right to be heard in matters of direct relevance to them. This article reports on the findings of a study which involved the interviewing of children and parents participating in family separation mediation in Australia. The key findings were that for most children their inclusion in the mediation was either unremarkable or beneficial in some important ways, however in a small number of cases involving family violence and/or anger, their inclusion sparked fear in children. We conclude that child inclusive separation processes must recognize the pervasiveness of family violence and balance the right of children to be heard with traditional welfare principles regarding the protection of children.

A necessary safety net: Use of a confidential internal telephone line to report unethical behaviour

This study examined employee likelihood of using a confidential internal telephone line (the Blueline) to discuss an ethical issue or to report unethical behaviour within a policing context. One-hundred and sixty-six Western Australia Police employees completed an online survey. Regression analysis indicated three factors that were significantly related to an increased likelihood of using the Blueline. These factors were: support for the existence of an internal reporting system, belief that agency support would be adequate during/after using the Blueline and perceived need for an anonymous internal reporting system. Although likelihood of using the Blueline was low, employees expressed that the telephone line was necessary for situations when other reporting avenues are deemed unsuitable.