This collection explores how the dominant risk agenda is being embedded across welfare policy and practice contexts in order to redefine social problems and those who experience them. Identities of 'risky' or 'safe', 'responsible' or 'irresponsible' are being increasingly applied, not only to everyday life but also to professional practice.

By integrating neuroscience and social science, this book introduces a bold new vision of Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR). The authors explain and enhance the art of action research through PALAR as a philosophy, methodology and theory of learning and as a facilitation process for professional learning and social justice.