A family of three, made up of a single mother, her 14-year-old son, and her 7-year-old daughter have contacted a licensed clinical social worker for immediate help. They have recently experienced the unexpected and violent death of the husband and father of the family during a neighborhood block party. They are emotionally devastated, and actively grieving. The children have not returned to their schools since the death of their father, which was two weeks ago. And their mother has not yet returned to work. The funeral for their family member was several days ago.Thing to consider in this case:
ALWAYS remember to include a substance abuse/domestic violence assessment of all family members. This would include knowing if the deceased was a substance abuser/domestic violence and what impact that could have had on the family. What assessment tools would you use for the family and children for substance abuse /domestic violence? Additionally what if this family was Muslim or Black or Hispanic any ethnic group where the violence could have been because of racism? How would that impact your assessment? What if the violence was because of gang violence in a very poor neighborhood? What if the father was killed by a police officer and the family and neighbor feel it was unjustified? How would you help the family get information an help as victims of violence?
