The development of practice theory in adult protection intervention: insights from a recent research project

This article discusses two theoretical constructs ‐ ways of understanding complex phenomena ‐ developed from a research study. The study, which explored the perceptions of adults who had been on the receiving end of adult protection procedures, uncovered that ambivalence about professional intervention accompanied a profound desire to have mistreatment ceased. It also found that sensitive intervention can make a positive contribution to people's lives.