The Davies Quartet: A Comment on ‘Skills, Knowledge and Qualities in Probation Practice’

Abstract

The publication of the 'Davies Quartet'—four linked studies of probation training and practice directed by Martin Davies—has created considerable interest. In this paper the main findings are outlined and the discussion then broadened to raise certain epistemologi cal questions which arise from the studies. It is argued that to take some of the studies' conclusions and recommendations at face value would be premature: firstly it is necessary to interrogate the theoretical and assumptive frameworks from which these conclusions and recommendations derive.