The Impact Of Maltreatment On Behavior
You are now working as a therapist in a mental health clinic. A mother, Michelle, comes to you concerned about her 12 year-old son named James. She describes James as being aggressive towards her which includes screaming in her face, throwing objects when he is upset and on two occasions, he pushed her down to the ground. While you are conducting the intake, Michelle tells you that she left James’ father, Michael, after years of domestic violence which resulted in his arrests and current incarceration. When you inquire about what behaviors James may have witnessed between his parents, Michelle is clear that James viewed many occasions when his Father punched her, blocked her from leaving the house and at one point, James intervened in the abuse resulting in him receiving a black eye from his Father. Despite these examples, Michelle articulates to you that she does not understand from where James has learned these aggressive behaviors and would like assistance and support to intervene with him “before he becomes just like his father.” How do you explain to Michelle the impact of Michael’s behaviors on James? What further questions would you like to ask Michelle? What techniques would you utilize to engage James?
Sample Solution
Michelle, it's understandable that you're concerned about James' aggressive behaviors. Witnessing domestic violence, especially the kind you described, can have a profound impact on a child's development and emotional well-being.
Here are some ways Michael's behaviors likely impacted James:
- Learned behavior: Unfortunately, children often learn by observing the behaviors of adults around them. Through witnessing his father's aggression towards you, James may have learned that aggression is an acceptable way to express anger or resolve conflict.
Full Answer Section
- Emotional trauma: Domestic violence creates a highly stressful and traumatic environment for children. James likely experienced feelings of fear, helplessness, and confusion during his father's abusive episodes. These experiences can lead to long-term emotional difficulties, including aggression, as a coping mechanism.
- Attachment issues: The bond between parent and child is crucial for healthy development. In James' case, his relationship with his father was likely marked by fear and instability. This can lead to insecure attachment patterns, which can contribute to difficulty regulating emotions and forming healthy relationships.
- Self-esteem issues: Witnessing domestic violence can also negatively impact a child's self-esteem. James may blame himself for his father's actions or feel powerless to change the situation. This can lead to feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy, which can manifest as aggression towards others.
- Has James experienced any other significant changes or stressors in his life besides the separation from his father?
- How are James' relationships with other family members and peers?
- Has James exhibited any other concerning behaviors besides aggression, such as depression, anxiety, or withdrawal?
- Does James have any academic or behavioral difficulties at school?
- Has James ever received any mental health support or counseling?
- How is Michelle coping with the aftermath of the domestic violence?
- Does Michelle have any support system in place, such as friends or family members?
- Has Michelle considered individual or family therapy for herself and James?
- Are there any safety concerns related to Michael's potential release from prison?
- Unconditional positive regard: This means showing James acceptance and respect regardless of his behavior.
- Active listening: This involves paying close attention to what James says and communicates nonverbally.
- Validation: This means acknowledging and accepting James' feelings, even if you don't agree with his actions.
- Open-ended questions: This encourages James to elaborate on his thoughts and feelings.
- Play therapy: This can be a helpful way to communicate with James on his level and help him express himself nonverbally.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This can help James identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to his aggression.
- Anger management techniques: These can teach James healthy ways to express anger and resolve conflict.
- Family therapy: This can help Michelle and James improve their communication and build a stronger parent-child relationship.