Containing Adolescence in Organisations

This chapter continues the discussion in Chapter 4 about the impact of adolescent emotionality on adults with whom they are in contact. In this chapter the focus is on those who work with adolescents in professional capacities. The chapter takes a particular perspective, that of discussing how the power of adolescent emotionality affects professionals who work with adolescents, and thus provides a context of intensity to the work. As well as needing to contend with intense emotions, the professional can make use of these to inform work and understanding. The first part of the chapter focuses on the often-intense emotional experiences of working with adolescents in organisations, illustrated through some case examples. These are then explored in relation to current organisational practices and the changing nature of organisations. Particular attention is paid in this discussion to the view that in the context of the global challenges of adolescent mental health, a crisis exists in the way that adolescent services meet the needs of young people. The chapter ends with a discussion of how engaging contact can be made with vulnerable adolescents who seek or need therapeutic help.