A brief summary of your client (young child), including presenting issues, family dynamics, and the young child’s attachment to primary caregiver(s).
Identify at least one significant development-related issue for the young child, and explain why this is an issue.
Describe an intervention you might employ to enhance the young child’s development, including why you think it would be appropriate.
Justify your response with references to this week’s Learning Resources and 1-2 peer-reviewed articles from the past 5 years.
Broderick, P. C., & Blewitt, P. (2020). The life span: Human development for helping professionals (5th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Pearson Education. ( chpt 5& 6)
My case: Name:
Jamal Anderson (M, 10 years)
Presenting Issues:
Jamal was brought to counseling by his grandmother, Audrey (F, 51 years). Jamal has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder level 1. He was in a special program at school from kindergarten through 4th grade. However, because he was so successful in the program and is considered “high functioning,” the school administration decided it was in Jamal’s best interests to “mainstream” him with the rest of the students.
Audrey stated that Jamal does well academically but still struggles with social cues. He has conflicts with peers and at home, and becomes frustrated easily. When this happens, he tends to act out, which is threatening his place in the school and the peace in the home.
During the session, which Audrey attended throughout, Jamal appeared pleasant and cooperative, although he made little eye contact. Jamal also stated that he did not want to talk to the counselor because the office walls are blue and he does not like blue. Jamal then asked if the counselor liked science fiction and started quizzing the counselor on classic sci-fi movies. Audrey appeared to be embarrassed by Jamal’s behavior (rolled her eyes and sighed loudly); she told him sternly to focus. Jamal then shut down and refused to speak for the rest of the session.
Cultural Profile:
Jamal is African American. The family is Southern Baptist and very involved in their church.
Family History:
Jamal is the oldest of three siblings; his parents were killed in a car accident when Jamal was 6 years old. All three children were adopted by Jamal’s maternal grandparents, Audrey and Ernie (M, 51 years). Jamal’s siblings—Marcus (M, 6 years) and Artesia (F, 4 years)—were too young when the parents died to remember anything about them. Jamal has some memories, but they are fading as he gets older.
