Identify ways in which counselors/therapists assess interpersonal violence and abuse in their work with couples and families.

To successfully complete this learning unit, you will be expected to:
Identify ways in which counselors/therapists assess interpersonal violence and abuse in their work with couples and families.
Apply evidence-based treatment to families, including same-gender abuse dynamics.
Required Reading:
Cui, M., Durtschi, J. A., Donnellan, M. B., Lorenz, F. O., & Conger, R. D. (2010). Intergenerational transmission of relationship aggression: A prospective longitudinal study. Journal of Family Psychology, 24(6), 688-697.
Foster, K., & Sandel, M. (2010). Abuse of women with disabilities: Toward an empowerment perspective. Sex Disability, 28, 177-186.
Ray, S. L. (2001). Male survivors’ perspectives of incest/sexual abuse. Perspectives in Psychiatric Care, 37(2), 49-59.
Samuelson, S. L., & Campbell, C. D. (2005). Screening for domestic violence: Recommendations based on a practice survey. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 36(3), 276–282.
Assignment
Steps to prepare this assignment:
(1) Imagine you are a therapist conducting a first session with a family and then develop a case conceptualization that includes treatment options. The family consists of a same-sex couple (two males) with two adolescent children (one male and one female). The adolescent girl is the identified client who has been acting out. Based on the intake materials you have read, it was noted that in the past there has been police involvement due to domestic violence in the family.
(2) Expand on the basic details in the above scenario to create an in-depth case narrative. In other words, use your creativity to fill in the details and elaborate on what is going on in this family. Be specific about and provide some examples of, the nature of the domestic violence (it is up to you to determine in which family relationships the violence occurs). Based on your readings for this class and other outside academic resources, describe one approach to assessment, one intervention, and two therapeutic goals for this family.

ANSWER

Case Conceptualization

Client Information

Family Type: Same-sex couple (two males) with two adolescent children (one male and one female)
Identified Client: Adolescent girl (16 years old)
History of Domestic Violence: Police involvement due to domestic violence in the past
Presenting Problem

The adolescent girl, Mary, has been exhibiting acting out behaviors, including:

Poor performance in school
Frequent arguments with parents
Engaging in risky behaviors
Case Narrative

John and David, a same-sex couple, have been together for 15 years. They have two children, Mary (16 years old) and Peter (14 years old). John and David have a history of domestic violence, which has led to police involvement in the past. Their arguments are often heated and can escalate into physical violence. Mary and Peter have witnessed these incidents, and they have been negatively affected by their parents’ relationship. Mary has begun to act out as a way of coping with the stress and instability in her home environment.

Assessment

Genogram: The genogram would reveal the intergenerational transmission of violence in John and David’s families. It would also show the power dynamics within the family and the potential for further violence.
Semi-structured interview: A semi-structured interview would allow the therapist to gather more information about the domestic violence, including the frequency and severity of the abuse, the impact on the children, and any underlying risk factors.
Psychological testing: Psychological testing could be used to assess for any mental health issues that Mary may be experiencing as a result of the domestic violence.
Intervention

Family therapy: Family therapy would provide a safe and supportive space for the family to discuss their problems and learn healthy communication skills. The therapist would help the family to identify and break down negative patterns of interaction, and they would teach the family how to resolve conflict in a constructive way.
Individual therapy: Individual therapy would provide Mary with a safe space to process her experiences and develop coping mechanisms for dealing with the stress in her home environment. The therapist would also help Mary to build self-esteem and develop healthy relationships.
Therapeutic Goals

Goal 1: Eliminate domestic violence from the home.
Goal 2: Improve communication and conflict resolution skills within the family.
Goal 3: Reduce Mary’s acting out behaviors and improve her overall well-being.