Identify The Presenting Problem For Helen's Case Study

Identify The Presenting Problem For The Case Study For Helen See Atta

Identify the presenting problem for the case study for Helen (see attachment). (Remember the presenting problem has to be framed from the perspective of role theory. For example, the presenting problem can be framed within the context of role functioning). Identify all the relevant roles assumed by the client. Analyze the social expectations and social and cultural norms revolving around the role, social position, and role scripts of one of the roles assumed by the client. Explain the role and social position of the social worker in working with the client in the case study. Describe how the role(s) and social position(s) assumed by the social worker will influence the relationship between the social worker and the client. Identify three assessment questions that are guided by role theory that you will ask the client to better understand the problem. Identify and describe two interventions that are aligned with the presenting problem and role theory. Identify one outcome that you would measure if you were to evaluate one of the interventions you would implement to determine if the intervention is effective. Evaluate one advantage and one limitation in using role theory in understanding the case.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Understanding the complexities of individual behavior within social contexts is essential for effective social work practice. By applying role theory, social workers can gain valuable insights into clients' roles, societal expectations, and cultural norms that influence their behavior and challenges. This paper analyzes Helen See Atta’s case through the lens of role theory to identify her presenting problems, relevant roles, and the social expectations attached to those roles. It also explores the social worker’s role, the impact of these roles on the client-worker relationship, and appropriate intervention strategies.

Presenting Problem from a Role Theory Perspective

Helen's presenting problem can be understood as a disturbance or conflict in her role functioning. Role theory posits that individuals occupy various social roles, each with associated expectations, rights, and responsibilities. When these expectations are unmet or when there is role conflict, individuals experience stress and behavioral issues. In Helen's case, she appears to struggle with fulfilling her familial and social roles due to factors such as cultural expectations, personal limitations, or external pressures. For example, she might be experiencing role overload as a caregiver or might feel isolated in her community due to cultural norms around gender or social status. The problem is thus framed as a disruption in role performance, leading to emotional distress and social withdrawal.

Relevant Roles Assumed by the Client

Helen assumes multiple roles, including that of a family caregiver, community member, and possibly a societal role based on her cultural background. As a caregiver, she is expected to provide emotional and physical support to family members, adhering to cultural norms that emphasize filial piety or familial duty. As a community member, she is subject to societal expectations around her behavior, participation, and adherence to cultural scripts. These roles come with specific role scripts—behavioral expectations rooted in social norms; for Helen, this might include self-sacrifice, resilience, and conformity to gender roles. Any deviation from these scripts could lead to social sanctions, internal conflict, or diminished social status.

Social Expectations and Norms Surrounding a Specific Role

Focusing on the role of caregiver within Helen’s cultural context, societal norms typically emphasize self-sacrifice, endurance, and prioritization of family needs over individual desires. In many cultures, particularly within collectivist frameworks, a woman's role as a caregiver is reinforced through social expectations that valorize sacrifice and resilience. Role scripts entail providing emotional support without acknowledgment or assistance, and failure to meet these expectations can result in social stigma or feelings of guilt. Norms such as "a good daughter" or "responsible community member" reinforce Helen’s adherence to specific behaviors and attitudes, shaping her self-identity and social interactions.

The Role and Social Position of the Social Worker

In working with Helen, the social worker assumes the role of a facilitator, supporter, and advocate. The social worker's social position entails being a culturally sensitive professional equipped to understand and respect Helen's social and cultural context. The social worker must balance empathy with professional boundaries while providing guidance that respects Helen's cultural norms. Recognizing the social position involves understanding power dynamics—Helen's potential feelings of obligation or shame versus the social worker’s role as an impartial helper.

Influence of Role and Social Position on the Social Worker-Client Relationship

Helen's roles and social position may influence her perceptions of the social worker's role, possibly viewing the worker as an authority figure or as an outsider challenging her cultural norms. The social worker's respectful acknowledgment of Helen's roles fosters trust and openness. Conversely, if the social worker does not consider these roles sensitively, it could lead to misunderstandings or resistance. The rapport hinges on the social worker's ability to navigate Helen’s cultural role expectations while empowering her to explore healthier functioning within her roles.

Assessment Questions Guided by Role Theory

1. How do you perceive your responsibilities within your familial and community roles?

2. Have you experienced any conflicts or stress related to fulfilling these roles?

3. What support or resources do you feel you need to better perform your roles?

Interventions Aligned with Role Theory

The first intervention involves role clarification and boundary-setting sessions, where Helen explores her current role expectations, identifies conflicts, and redefines achievable goals. This aligns with role theory by addressing discrepancies in role performance. The second intervention could be family and community education programs that aim to modify social expectations and role scripts, fostering more supportive environments that recognize the limits of her roles and promote flexibility.

Measuring Outcomes

An effective outcome measure would be Helen’s reported stress levels related to role conflicts, assessed through pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. A reduction in perceived stress and an increase in perceived control over her roles would indicate intervention success.

Evaluation of Role Theory in Understanding the Case

One advantage of applying role theory is that it offers a structured way to analyze how social expectations influence individual behavior, allowing targeted interventions. However, a limitation is that it may oversimplify complex personal and cultural factors, reducing multifaceted human experiences to role scripts and expectations, which might overlook individual agency and resilience.

Conclusion

Role theory provides valuable insights into Helen See Atta's presenting problems by framing her challenges within the context of social roles and norms. Understanding her multiple roles, cultural expectations, and societal scripts helps in designing culturally sensitive interventions that address her specific stressors and conflicts. The social worker's role as an empathetic facilitator and advocate is crucial in supporting Helen toward healthier role functioning and improved well-being. Although role theory has its limitations, its application offers a pragmatic framework for understanding and intervening in complex social and personal issues, ultimately enhancing social work practice.

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