Author: Toyin Okitikpi

Publisher: Russell House Publishing Limited

Published: 2005

Total Pages: 168

ISBN-13:

This uniquely important new book asks fundamental questions about professional practice that views society as a binary world in which children can be only 'Black' or 'White'. It questions social workers' and others' assumptions about children of mixed parentage, and challenges simplistic understandings of race, ethnicity and culture. It advocates a more complex understanding of the issues - one rooted in the lived experience of the children and families who are the subjects of social intervention. Rather than viewing these children and young people as victims of confusion and uncertainty, this important book identifies the ethnic and cultural diversity to which these youngsters are heir as the basis upon which effective practice must be built.Working with children of mixed parentage explores: The influence of the 'one-drop' rule (one drop of black blood renders a person black), on professional practice in social welfare; The experiences of white mothers of children of mixed parentage; The social impact of the increasing number of interracial relationships and children of mixed parentage in Britain; The social and psychological development of children of mixed parentage; A new paradigm for direct work with the children and young people of mixed parentage and their families; The permanent family placement experience of children of mixed parentage The contributors are at the forefront of developments in this contentious field. Working with children of mixed parentage has been written with practitioners, students, service managers and academics in mind. It is an invaluable source for those genuinely interested in developing improved practice with children of mixed parentage and their families.