Considering the Tension Between Theory and Practice in Child and Youth Care.

There exists a pervasive tension between theory and practice in the field of child and youth care (CYC). This summary of findings from a qualitative research study provides insight into the perspectives of CYC practitioners related to their understanding of theory, practice, its tension, and how that understanding might influence the quality of care they are able to provide to the young people they engage. Interviews were conducted with three practitioners, all of whom engage theory and practice in the field of CYC. Key findings were interpreted from an ethical praxis theoretical lens, which indicates that the field of CYC, and all its members, needs to take responsibility in unifying its theoretical and practical components. Although this tension manifested many years ago, the members of the field of CYC continue to perpetuate it in a variety of ways. Recommendations are made for implementing change throughout the field of CYC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]