RAP 'n CAB : research and partnership in Cardiff and Bristol : an in depth exploration of perspectives held by boys who have social emotional behavioural difficulties on their lifestyle, health and access to health-related services using a music-based approach

• Main Author: Mages, Linda
• Published: University of Bath 2012
• Subjects: 616.8900835
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.555744

An in depth exploration of perspectives held by boys who have social emotional behavioural difficulties (SEBDs) on their lifestyle, health and access to health-related services using a music-based approach. RAP ‘n CAB is a collaborative exploratory study between 2 secondary schools asking what perspectives boys with SEBDs hold on their lifestyle, health and access to health-related help. The methodology is qualitative using a participative approach involving peer researchers to collect data. Using purposive sampling, eight boys aged 14 years consented to participate on invitation by their teachers. Analysis of the data reflected a subjectivist epistemological approach. Use of Labov’s Evaluative Framework (1972b) was attempted as its narrative analysis methodology fitted the dual purpose of the research: to facilitate the telling of perspectives on health and lifestyle that are unique to the individual and to understand that telling. Due to methodological problems arising it was found that relevant data was excluded. A thematic analysis was therefore developed using Labov’s concept of clause social function to code data. This was enabled by the development of an inclusive narrative clause definition so that all the data collected could be included in the analysis. The use of face-to-face semi-structured interviews, focus groups and original composition of raps were effective in obtaining subjective data depicting personal perspectives that fulfilled the research objectives. The findings suggested that family, school and peer contexts were important to the research participant’s lives but that their lifestyle actions were predominantly influenced by good friends, peer competition and peer pressure. Interesting insights revealed the importance of invisible routines to lifestyle choices and the extent that eating was no longer included within the fundamental routine of their daily lives.