Case Study

Sam is 5 years old. The practitioners who work with him report to you that he is hitting the other children when they try to join in his game and take the toys he is playing with. The parents of the other children are getting cross and want something done about Sam’s attacks on their children

• Is Sam’s behaviour normal for his age?
• What biological factors could be causing this behaviour in Sam?
• What environmental factors could be causing this behaviour in Sam?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.