P4-1
Table of Contents
Case Study
Matthew is 12 years old and has recently joined the Meadows Children’s Home where there are 4 other young people, ranging in ages from 13 to 16 years of age. He has been physically abused by his step-father and rejected by his mother. Various foster care placements have broken down due to his inability to make new attachments and his refusal to accept help and support from adults. He is terrified of contact and, following the hurt and rejection he’s encountered in the past, has very low self-esteem. Matthew finds it difficult to make new relationships; he has experienced carers as rejecting, interfering and controlling, and switches off his emotions to avoid closeness. As a result he is fiercely self-reliant. Any anxiety, tension or conflict causes Matthew upset and can lead to a breakdown in his behaviour.
- Based on the information above, how might the setting build trust with Matthew?
- How might you encourage your team to help Matthew adapt to the group living environment?
- How might you encourage the 5 young people to build relationships together, resulting in a positive group dynamic?
It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the response you have chosen to this scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague and ask them to tell you if 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.