Black African parents’ experiences of an Educational Psychology Service

Abstract

The evidence base that explores Black African parents’ experiences of an Educational Psychology Service (EPS) is limited. This article describes an exploratory mixed methods research study undertaken during 2009–2011, that explored Black African parents’ engagement with a UK EPS. Quantitative data were gathered from the EPS preschool database and parents completed the Family Support Scale which explored the social support they accessed outside of the EPS, such as relatives. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore five parents’ experiences of the preschool EPS. The interview data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings highlighted key themes pertinent to educational psychology practice and are applicable to all families regardless of ethnic background. Psychological theories and frameworks are discussed alongside the implications for educational psychology practice.