I became interested in seeing how the Parents of children who are emotionally disturbed instead of focusing on the siblings. I came across a Clinical Care Update by Matthew K. Modrein, PH.D. and Judy Robinson, M.A., who provide assessment, treatment, and support to parents with a child who has a severe emotional disorder. In this study these parents face significant personal and family issues. The goal of this study to to expand the way professionals work with these families and create a better understanding of their struggles.
Also, bringing to light the ideal community resources needed to create and maintain a parent-professional partnership. Understanding the ways in which families cope with the demands on their lives offers the possibility of healing rather than labeling these children and their surroundings. Although this study is rather lengthy, it really brings awareness to the issues that these families face each and every day.
Study
Hi Brooke – In order to support families and work collaboratively and cooperatively with them, educators need to have an appreciation for the family’s unique situation and their feelings. Empathy for others is something that I strive for and believe that it is something that teachers need practice. The study you found stated that, “Creating an empathic environment or context for the establishment of a working relationship is viewed by some (Kohut, 1982; Wolf, 1988) as the core of the helping process." Empathizing with families communicates a level of understanding that increases trust and respect within the collaboration. This should be an area of focus for educators and they should strive to understand a family’s personal experiences.
ReplyDeleteIt is very important to not only focus on the child with emotionaly disturbances but the siblings and parents as well. Going through an ordeal with someone who's emotions that are unstable can cause stress on the entire family. I wonder if there are camps or retreats that the entire family can go to in order to try to have some sort of relaxation time.
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