Book reviews [International Journal of Emotional Education, 4(1)]

Abstract

In this issue of the IJEE book reviews section we focus on a single text, “Children’s social and emotional wellbeing in schools: a critical perspective” (2012, Policy Press), written by Debbie Watson, Carl Emery and Phil Bayliss, with contributions from Margaret Boushel and Karen McInnes. There are two reviews – by Ruth Cigman and Katherine Ecclestone – followed by a response from the authors. The text by Watson et al. provides a critical perspective on an area that is central to the mission statement of ENSEC, and as a result has been viewed by some as challenging the core principles of our organisation. Having read the book, my own view is that it is less incendiary and controversial in its key propositions about children’s wellbeing than it has perhaps been given credit for – reinforcing the age-old maxim that we should never judge a book by its cover. Watson et al do challenge many of the assumed truths in the field of social and emotional wellbeing, but their critique is primarily about how the concept itself is constructed and understood. They offer an alternative perspective on wellbeing, but at the core of their thesis is the view that, “engaging with children’s social and emotional development is vital, and the contested nature of the concept of wellbeing does not mean that there is not a need for many of the activities taking place on the ground” (p.209).