Resources: Review - A youth worker's guide to transactionalanalysis

The Space Between is the first book I have come across (maybe I haven't looked that hard - but equally I haven't been dormant) that introduces and develops the subject in a way that is intended to be of practical use to those working with young people in the field.

Anita Mountain has produced both a theoretical and practical manual of transactional analysis, offering group-work approaches particularly for those young people at risk of involvement with juvenile justice or care systems.

It is divided into two parts. Part one explains the theory of transactional analysis and the practical application of it with young people. Now, to anyone in the youth work field who has little or no knowledge of the theory, this part of the book is essential and useful reading. It may well cause the worker to consider themselves and their own practice, but from this I suspect they will develop a better knowledge of the emotionally driven traps we are all at risk of falling into with young people - or with just about anyone, really - and how our resultant responses can inhibit our work and the development of those we are seeking to help.