The article presents the contribution of critical feminist theory, especially intersectional theory, to intervention with adolescent girls. Intersectional theory emphasises the structural intersection of social categories, such as gender, class and ethnicity, which lies behind inequality, along with the need to acknowledge women's life experiences, voices and knowledge. The article presents a programme based on intersectional theory which consisted of two phases: (i) training for social workers, aimed at acquainting them with critical feminist analysis; (ii) direct intervention with girls, based on discussions the trained social workers initiated and led with the girls on their everyday experiences in regard to gender, ethnicity, class, sexuality and employment. The main contents of the training as well as examples of the discussions held with the girls are presented. Finally, the article discusses the challenges of critical feminist practice.
Rachel is research active in the area of social work and social policy and is a member of the Connect Centre for International Research on New Approaches to Prevent Violence and Harm. Prior to entering the academy, Rachel worked in a range of social work and social policy settings. About the Series Routledge Advances in Social Work. This article introduces intersectionality as a usable tool for critical reflection, which as a part of the critical social work tradition aims to challenge.