An initial exploration of a new framework for self-reflection and sharing of personal experiences and values to facilitate a safe and trusting working relationship: Reflections of Self-Exploration (RoSE)©

Aim: This is an initial exploration of a new metaphorical framework (RoSE) designed to facilitate a safe and trusting working relationship through self-reflection and sharing of personal values, beliefs and feelings. Method: The RoSE framework was presented to, and trialled by, the 13 psychologists before they used it within their work. There were 39 participants in total comprising eight EPs, three AEPs, two TEPs, 16 school staff including teachers, TAs and ELSAs, and 10 residential support workers within a children’s home. Feedback was gathered via written responses to a short survey consisting of open-ended questions, providing sufficient flexibility to allow all participants to share their experiences of using the RoSE. Findings: Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four main themes that contributed to the value, acceptability and usefulness of the new framework. These were identified as: ‘Knowing the self’; ‘Knowing the other’; ‘Developing a relationship’; and ‘Flexibility and Fluidity’. Overall, the metaphor of the RoSE was felt to be a good representation of the individual, which facilitated self-exploration and sharing in a more flexible and mutually supportive way than was felt to be possible with other models experienced. Limitations: Despite the potential limitations of self-reporting as a form of data gathering, it was felt to be appropriate for this initial exploratory study. Although most participants were unaware of the researcher’s positionality, reducing the risk of positive response bias, social desirability effects and confirmation bias, the EPs participating in this study did know the researcher which could have skewed the results in favour of positive feedback. Conclusions: There is initial evidence that the RoSE metaphor and associated protocol have value and usefulness in the EP role particularly around relationship building, reflective practice, and ensuring psychological safety. Its flexibility and accessibility are seen as being advantageous over existing frameworks giving it potential value within a range of professional relationships across various contexts. The RoSE framework supports the development of trusting and safe relationships in which both parties feel valued and able to share, thereby deepening mutual understanding. Once this trusting relationship has been developed, it becomes possible to engage with more challenging areas of discussion including personal bias and assumptions.