The biological, psychological, and social systems positively and negatively affected Trina Garnett

Sample Solution

The Impact of Incarceration on Trina Garnett: A Social Work Analysis

Biological, Psychological, and Social Effects of Life Imprisonment

Trina Garnett's experience growing up with a father sentenced to life imprisonment undoubtedly had a profound impact on her development. Here's a breakdown of the positive and negative effects across different systems:

Biological:

• Negative: Chronic stress from a disrupted family structure can lead to weakened immune function, increased risk for chronic illness, and disrupted sleep patterns [1].
• Positive: Limited research suggests resilience can be fostered even in adversity [2].

Psychological:

• Negative: Witnessing a parent's incarceration can lead to anxiety, depression, feelings of isolation, and difficulty forming healthy attachments [3].
• Positive: Strong social support systems can buffer the negative psychological effects [4].

Social:

• Negative: Stigma associated with parental incarceration can lead to social isolation, bullying, and academic difficulties [5].
• Positive: Positive relationships with teachers, mentors, and extended family can provide support and opportunities [6].

Developmental Theories:

• Erikson's Psychosocial Theory: Trina might struggle with the stage of "Identity vs. Role Confusion" due to the disrupted family dynamic and societal stigma.

• Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory:

  • Microsystem: Strained relationship with mother, lack of father figure, and possible bullying from peers could negatively impact her development.
  • Mesosystem: Disrupted school environment due to emotional difficulties could lead to academic problems.
  • Macrosystem: Mass incarceration policies and societal prejudice towards formerly incarcerated individuals create a disadvantageous environment.

Full Answer Section

Formal and Informal Systems:

• Formal (Negative): Policies like mandatory minimum sentencing and limited parole options contribute to mass incarceration and family disruption.
• Formal (Positive): School counselors and social workers can offer support and resources.
• Informal (Negative): Stigma from the community and limited extended family support can exacerbate challenges.
• Informal (Positive): Strong friendships and nurturing relationships with neighbors or religious figures can provide a sense of belonging.

Engaging Trina as a Social Worker (Adolescent Stage):

1. Engagement Strategies:

   • Strength-based approach: Highlighting Trina's resilience and coping mechanisms.
   • Active listening: Creating a safe space for her to express her emotions.
   • Culturally competent communication: Understanding the unique challenges faced by African American youth.
   • Connecting with her interests: Building rapport through shared activities

2. Biopsychosocial Assessment:

   • Psychological Assessment: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V): This widely used, reliable, and valid test assesses cognitive abilities [7]. Analyzing the results would help understand Trina's potential and identify any learning difficulties.
   • Interviews: Gathering information from Trina, her mother, and school personnel.

Using an Eco-Map:

An eco-map visually depicts Trina's social support network. It might reveal a strained relationship with her mother, minimal contact with her father, and limited extended family support. However, strong friendships or a supportive teacher could be identified as positive connections.

Treatment Plan:

1. Individual Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can equip Trina with coping skills to manage stress and anxiety related to her father's incarceration.

   • Rationale: CBT is evidence-based for reducing anxiety and depression in adolescents [8].

2. Family Therapy: (If feasible) Improve communication within the family and help them navigate the challenges of parental incarceration.

   • Rationale: Stronger family bonds can provide much-needed support for Trina [9].

3. Support Group: Connecting Trina with other children of incarcerated parents, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience.

   • Rationale: Peer support can help Trina feel less alone and provide valuable coping strategies [10].

4. School Advocacy: Collaborate with teachers to address any academic challenges stemming from emotional difficulties.

   • Rationale: Academic success can boost Trina's self-esteem and future opportunities [11].

Timeline:

• Individual Therapy: Weekly sessions for 6 months, followed by bi-weekly sessions.
• Family Therapy: (If feasible) Monthly sessions for 3 months.
• Support Group: Weekly meetings.
• School Advocacy: Ongoing communication and collaboration with teachers.

Evaluation of Intervention:

The success of the intervention would be measured by:

• Reduced anxiety and depression symptoms through clinical assessments.