Problem:
Working with adolescents can be challenging because many do not choose to engage in services on their own. In the simulation video with Claire, it was clear that she was uncomfortable. She was brought to the appointment by her father, which created a dynamic where trust had to be built before any real progress could happen. Because of this, my first priority was to create a safe, nonjudgmental space and focus on building rapport.
During the simulation, I was mindful to use open-ended questions to help Claire feel heard and give her control over what she shared. I approached her with empathy, knowing she was grieving the suicide of her best friend and carrying guilt about a comment she had made. Because of her age, I used simple, developmentally appropriate language and avoided anything that might feel overwhelming. Trauma-informed care was especially important in this case, as grief, guilt, and shock can deeply affect Claire's sense of safety and self-worth.
If this were an older adult client (age 75 or above) experiencing the same loss, I would still approach the case with empathy and trauma-informed care, but I would likely feel more comfortable initially because older adults often seek services on their own. That choice alone can make engagement easier. However, older adults also face increased risks of social isolation, grief, and loss, especially when they lose close relationships (Cox & Pardasani, 2017). My role would still be to listen, validate, and ensure the client had strong social supports, whether through family, community, or formal services.
My approach would remain similar in core values, but I would adjust my language and strategies based on cultural norms related to age. Older adults may value independence, privacy, and dignity, while adolescents may need more reassurance, guidance, and permission to express their emotions. In both cases, I would aim to meet the client where they are, honor their lived experience, and uphold their right to self-determination, as outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics (NASW, 2021).
Ultimately, both adolescents and older adults deserve to be seen, heard, and supported in ways that respect their developmental stage and cultural expectations. Empathy, patience, and trauma-informed practice remain essential across the lifespan, even when the approach looks slightly different. Need Assignment Help?
References:
Cox, C., & Pardasani, M. (2017). Aging and human rights: A rights-based approach to social work with older adults. Journal of Human Rights and Social Work, 2(3), 98-106.
Marsiglia, F. F., Kulis, S. S., & Lechuga-Peña, S. (2021). Diversity, oppression, and change: Culturally grounded social work (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.
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