Bad apples or bad barrels? Preventing the misuse of restraint and seclusion with vulnerable children

Scandals involving the misuse of restraint and seclusion in schools emerge with such frequency that the issue might be argued to be an example of what has been termed a ‘wicked problem’; that is, one resistant to definitive formulation and thus any permanent resolution. This article critically examines such a characterisation and, drawing on the concepts of corrupted cultures and vulnerability theory, seeks to provide a comprehensive explanation of why patterns of individual and institutional abuse can develop and readily become pervasive. Having suggested what may be the root causes of the phenomenon, the article describes the implications for prevention and the nature of the challenges that may have to be overcome.