Dr Avery Calhoun

Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Dr Frank McGrath

Director, Hillhurst Counselling Centre, Alberta, Canada

Narrative Pedagogy: Uncovering Alternatives to Violence

Abstract

Genesis is an educational and treatment program for men confronting their use of abuse in relationships. In developing Genesis, we have incorporated useful empirically developed knowledge regarding domestic violence and a pedagogic stance that reflects the values we consider important. The empirically developed knowledge includes material related to anger and other emotions, sex role socialization, communication skills, the influence of the family of origin, and attachment. The pedagogic stance through which the material is delivered is the narrative perspective. The narrative approach offers opportunities for individuals to develop new understandings of, or stories about, past experiences and to recognize and develop stories that support preferred identities. As a result of the client's 'excavation' of counter-plots to dominate themes in his life, he is able to develop a different relationship to the problem that brought him (her) to ask for help. This paper provides an overview of the Genesis Group and explores the constructionist orientation to learning assumed by the facilitators.

Bionotes

Avery Calhoun brings a post-modern feminist perspective to her work as a teacher, social work clinician, and program evaluator. She has particular interests in the areas of interpersonal violence and restorative justice. In her current role as Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work, Avery teaches clinical and research method courses.

Frank McGrath, Ph.D. is a psychologist who applies post-modern and narrative understandings with men who use abuse as well as with larger systems so that they might follow the "always present" voices that cry out for safety and respect. Dr McGrath is Co-director of Hillhurst Counselling Centre in Calgary, Alberta, which provides the men's treatment component of Genesis.

Presentation Type
60 min. Workshop

Presentation Equipment and Other Requests
Data Projector (will bring own laptop and power adaptor)

Speaking Date/Time Restrictions

Country
Canada