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Alton Stevenson Hello everyone,
Upon careful consideration of the case, I would approach the situation with a balanced mix of empathy, understanding, sensitivity, and compassion, while also acknowledging the unique challenges associated with adolescence. Recognizing the client’s age, I understood that their stage of development played a significant role in shaping their perceptions and responses to the circumstances they were facing. Adolescence is characterized by rapid changes, identity exploration, and heightened emotions, which influenced my approach to the case. Understanding the client’s age was pivotal in guiding my decision-making process. I took into account the adolescent’s need for autonomy and independence, while also recognizing the importance of providing guidance and support. I ensured that my communication with the client was age-appropriate, respectful, and non-judgmental, creating a safe environment for them to express their thoughts and emotions. This approach aimed to foster open communication and make the client, Claire, feel comfortable, especially considering the circumstances that led to her therapy session. Now, envisioning the same scenario with an older client aged 75 or above, my emotions might vary. While I would still approach the case with empathy and understanding, I might also experience a sense of concern or apprehension due to potential age-related factors such as health issues, cognitive decline, or social isolation. However, I would remind myself to focus on the individual’s strengths, resilience, and capacity for growth, irrespective of age.
Furthermore, Marsiglia, Kulis, and Lechuga-Peña (2021) underscore the significance of cultural competence in social work practice.
They argue that social workers must recognize and address the diverse needs and experiences of older adults from various cultural backgrounds. By integrating culturally grounded approaches, social workers can tailor interventions that respect older adults’ cultural values, beliefs, and traditions, thereby promoting their overall well-being and autonomy. My approach would likely adapt based on cultural norms associated with age. In some cultures, older adults are revered and respected for their wisdom and life experience, while in others, there may be stereotypes or biases linked to aging. I would endeavor to be culturally sensitive and adjust my approach accordingly, honoring the client’s cultural background and values while providing support tailored to their individual needs and preferences. In conclusion, by incorporating insights from Marsiglia et al. (2021), we can strengthen our argument for adopting a culturally competent approach in social work practice, irrespective of the client’s age. These perspectives emphasize the importance of upholding human rights, addressing systemic oppression, and promoting diversity and inclusion in social work practice.
Reference:
Marsiglia, F. F., Kulis, S. S., & Lechuga-Peña, S. (2021). Diversity, oppression, and change: Culturally grounded social work (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Reply
Angelica Calloway
How did you approach the case, and how did the age of the client factor into your decision making?
As a Social worker, a would approach the situation with confidence and understanding. In this case, teenage behavior is being displayed . When an adult shows confidence in what they are talking about, it tends to calm the teenager & make them feel at ease. Obtaining trust will allow me to build trust with client & create a safe space. The client is going through grief and I would want to educate her on the grief process so she will be aware that her feelings are valid ! I would reassure the client that her dad has her best interest at hand & you are there to help her in to getting her life back to normal.
Then, imagine it was an older client (age 75 or above) in the same situation. How comfortable or uncomfortable would you be?
In this case if it was an older person. I would approach them with the same method just in terms which they can understand me. As a social work, we have to adjust to several different aspects so building a rapport with my older client would be essential to a successful session.
Would your approach be different based on cultural norms related to age?
The only aspect I would change about my approach would be the terminology. As a social worker you are required to assist in the clients level.
