Sierra perceives Wendy to be quite demanding, always
“wanting her way.” Sierra doesn’t know what to do, and she yearns for the
simpler times of Wendy sleeping most of her day when she was a newborn. For her
part, Wendy can be found around the house watching a good bit of TV. With those
at her preschool, Wendy is sociable and often kind with other children. She
laughs and is able to get along with others. But, those times when she is met
with a limit for her behavior are difficult for all involved. Staff members
from the school have met with Sierra many times, all to no avail. Sierra is
beginning to think that her daughter has some kind of problem, and she is
considering taking her to see a child psychiatrist.
Wendy and her sister continue to grow in their relationship,
and they seem to enjoy one another. With the few number of toys they have, they
love “playing house.” Wendy is usually “in charge,” something her older sister
is mostly OK with. From time to time, however, the two fight as sisters
sometimes do, and this leads Sierra to “snap” by yelling at both of them. Wendy
usually runs away crying.
* Describe the typical developmental milestones for a 4
year old and how these may manifest differently in the parent-child
relationship for a child with an anxious-avoidant attachment pattern.
* Describe the manner in which a family transitions from
Part B of IDEA to Part C. What are the major differences between the services
provided under Part B vs Part C?
* Why do you think Sierra is considering a child
psychiatrist and not a different kind of mental health professional?
DECISION POINT ::: Does Sierra take Wendy to see a child
psychiatrist?
From Thomas Mahoney Group :::
1) Are parenting groups
widely used in America? What are the demographics concerning people who
participate in parenting groups? How and where can people find parenting groups
in their community?
2) What lasting impact will
Sierra’s anxious/avoidment attachment approach leave on her daughter Wendy, as
well as her other child if she does not seek further treatment for her
depression?
3)
Can Sierra legally seek financial support from her ex-fiancee because he is the
father of her two children? What child support plans can Sierra look into?
From
the Ahmad Nassar Group :::
1) What may have influenced
Wendy and her mother’s strained relationship?
2)
How might Sierra react in light of her feelings towards Wendy and Wendy’s
tendency to be “inconsolable”?
From
the Lisa Yoo Group :::
1) Sierra has been suffering
from depression. This single father that she met at the group might be
interested in her, but if she pursues this possible relationship, what effects
will that have on her life as a mother? Will it take away from her attachment
problem with Wendy? Or is it possible that with another single parent in her
life, she can learn to cope better?
1. Describe the typical developmental milestones for a 4 year old and how these may manifest differently in the parent-child relationship for a child with an anxious-avoidant attachment pattern.
ReplyDeleteA typical 4 year old reaches many milestones as the child continues to grow. Physically a 4 year old keeps gaining weight and getting taller and also improves his or her overall balance. A 4 year old can also hop on one foot, skip, swing, and can throw a ball overhand with some coordination skills. At this age children can usually cut using scissors (better finger dexterity), but they still may not be able to tie their shoes. A 4 year old may also still wet the bed, but can normally use the bathroom without any help. On the cognitive level, a 4 year old has a vocabulary of over 1,000 words, can easily make sentences using four to five words, and starts using the past tense when talking. In addition, they can typically count to the number ten, name some colors, learn simple songs, and in general try to be more independent. By this age children have a better perception of time, but they still do not really understand the moral concepts of what is right and what is wrong. Four year olds tend to ask a lot of questions, can use their language to compare different objects, and may be able to write some letters of the alphabet. Socially and emotionally 4 year olds want to please their friends and want to be like their friends. They can usually distinguish between fantasy and reality and enjoy singing, dancing, and acting. Four year olds have better self-control over their emotions, understand how to join in group play, use pretend play, and they may have imaginary playmates.
While these are the typical developmental milestone for a 4 year old, it is possible that Wendy may develop differently because of her anxious-avoidant attachment pattern with her mother. This attachment results in the child avoiding or ignoring his or her caregiver (in this case Wendy ignores her mother Sierra) and the child shows little emotion when the caregiver leaves or returns. In general, the child treats his or her caregiver no differently than a stranger. This type of attachment may affect Wendy’s development as she emotionally does not have a very loving relationship with her mother. It does not help that Sierra has decided to ignore Wendy most of the time, only enforcing this detached relationship. As a result, this could affect Wendy’s emotional development and also influence her social interactions with other children. At home the blog says Wendy watches television frequently and sometimes plays with her older sister. Although it appears that Wendy gets along well with other children, the blog indicates that when Wendy does not get her way she throws a tantrum, thus showing that Wendy does not understand how to control her emotions, while typically most 4 year olds can manage themselves. This is also seen when Wendy fights with her sister and ends up running away crying from the situation instead of controlling her feelings. Hopefully Sierra can get help to change this relationship. The sooner Sierra gets help the better because Wendy’s brain is still very flexible as she is still young, so she can learn how to respond emotionally in a proper manner before her emotional problems become lifelong. I think the biggest developmental concerns for Wendy are her emotional and social skills because of her anxious-avoidant attachment with her mother.
References
American Academy of Pediatrics (2011). Developmental milestones: 4 to 5 year
olds. HealthyChildren.org. Retrieved from
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/agesstages/preschool/pages/Developmental-Milestones-4-to-5-Year-Olds.aspx
Brodie, R. (n.d.). Mary Ainsworth and attachment theory. Child Development
Media. Retrieved from http://www.childdevelopmentmedia.com/mary-
ainsworth-and-attachment-theory.html
Mannheim, J. (2010). Developmental milestones record- 4 years. MedlinePlus.
Retrieved from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002015.htm
2. Describe the manner in which a family transitions from Part B of IDEA to Part C. What are the major differences between the services provided under Part B vs Part C?
ReplyDeleteThe IDEA focuses on improved educational performance and results for children with disabilities. It provides procedural safeguards to ensure that children and youth with disabilities receive the special education and related services, which they require to benefit from their educational program. It is composed of two different parts, B and C. The major distinction between the two is that part B applies to children from the age of three to twenty two years of age and part C applies to infants, toddlers and their families. More specifically, part C provides early intervention services to every eligible child and their families under the federal grant program. It utilizes an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP), provides services and education to children in their natural environment, and ensures Local Service Access to all children. Part B provides Special Education and Related Services Under the Free and Appropriate Education Act (FAPE). It utilizes an Individual Education Program (IEP), provides services and education to children in the Least Restrictive Environment, and ensures Local Service Access to all children. Both parts encourage active parent involvement.
The most difficult transition for families is the change from the family-focused services of early intervention (part C) to the child-centered education programs of part B, because when families enter part B programs at age 3, the school assumes the primary educational responsibility. The IDEA requires a minimum transition period of 6 months from early intervention to preschool. The goal of this is to build a positive relationship with the school and family, and is filled with the evaluations and meetings that are required by law. Parents must give formal consent to allow permission to assess, plan, and to determine a disability, and if disabled, IEP development will be completed within 45 school days. A multidisciplinary team completes evaluations that include formal and informal measures in the domains of cognition, physical, communication, and social/emotional areas.
The most important step in the transition period is the establishment of a strong partnership between the school and family, where common goals are created. Families should prepare for the IFSP/IEP transition meetings by visiting with teachers and staff, and become familiar with their rights and service obligations for their child under part B of IDEA. Families and schools should maintain consistent and effective communication through follow-up phone calls and weekly written information, and parent support groups. Roles and expectations need be established together in order for families to understand what to expect from the school, as well as what is expected from them. Home visits should continue through this period to give teachers and parents an opportunity to view the child in the familiar environment of the home and observe the communication styles used in the home. Families and schools should establish flexible schedules, for some children a combination of home-based and preschool may be most effective. It is also important to begin kindergarten visitations during this period to establish familiarity with the school and classroom and provide the kindergarten teacher with all information including the child’s IEP needs, goals, and services.
(Question continued onto next post)
2. (continued) Transition planning is extremely important for the children, parents, and teachers involved. Children need continuity with their earlier education experiences in order to increase their motivation, self-confidences, improve relations with other children and adults, and establish a greater sense of trust between teachers and children. Overall, this transition period focuses on the shift from family centered supports to the educational support of the child. The amendments for this transition stress the focus on improved educational performance and results for children with disabilities’, creates “high expectations” for those children, and the goal is that the students’ education will result in the achievement of “productive, independent, adult lives to the maximum extent possible,” (Johnson, 2001).
ReplyDeleteReferences:
Johnson, C. (2001). Supporting families in transition between early intervention
and school aged programs. Colorado Department of Education. Retrieved
from http://www.handsandvoices.org/pdf/trans_cheryl.pdf.
3. Why do you think Sierra is considering a child psychiatrist and not a different kind of mental health professional?
ReplyDeletePsychiatrists have the most extensive background when it comes to dealing with human beings. Not only do they have training in the medical field, but they specialize in the mental health fields. Psychiatrists can use varying techniques to re-mediate thoughts and behaviors, from natural remedies to prescription drugs. It is likely Sierra is considering a child psychiatrist because of these specialties, and perhaps she does not know the defining qualifications of other professionals that may also be of assistance. Sierra believes that her daughter may have a behavioral problem, one that needs professional observation and treatment. She may also seek a psychiatrist instead of other professionals because it involves the prevention of mental illness, so Sierra may be thinking about the future effects on Wendy if help isn’t found now.
References:
WebMD. (2012). Psychiatry, psychology, counseling, and therapy: what to expect.
WebMD. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/guide-to-
psychiatry-and-counseling
DECISION POINT ::: Does Sierra take Wendy to see a child psychiatrist?
Yes, Sierra does decide to take Wendy to a psychiatrist because of the profession’s high qualifications and the fact that she knows one visit cannot by any means worsen her situation with Wendy. In fact, Sierra may be enlightened and possibly find an answer to Wendy’s problems from this visit. The psychiatrist may be able to give her a specific diagnosis for Wendy’s developing issues and find her a treatment to help her cope with these problems. Sierra wants to be a good mom, but at this moment she feels that Wendy’s behavior is out of her control; seeking professional help seems to be the only choice. Sierra believes that there is something wrong with Wendy, not herself, and therefore believes that it is the right choice to take Wendy to see a child psychiatrist.
From Thomas Mahoney Group
ReplyDelete1. Are parenting groups widely used in America? What are the demographics concerning people who participate in parenting groups? How and where can people find parenting groups in their community?
Parenting groups are widely used in America for individuals in need of support for various reasons including depression, mental illness, immigrants and their families, and parents with children who have disabilities, to name a few. There are many parenting groups available for those seeking support, and they can be found at any time, even as early as in the hospital after birth. Many support groups have information published on websites that allow interested parties to find exact group locations in their areas. Another way to begin exploring parenting groups offered in the area is by talking to a local caseworker to find out what groups are active in the area. If a family does not have a caseworker, they can check with the special education staff at local schools, preschool, early intervention programs, the social service department at the children's hospital, the vocational rehabilitation programs, or the group home programs.
References:
Parents Helping Parents. (2008). Parent support groups. Parents Helping Parents.
Retrieved from http://www.parentshelpingparents.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12&Itemid=84
2. What lasting impact will Sierra’s anxious/avoidment attachment approach leave on her daughter Wendy, as well as her other child if she does not seek further treatment for her depression?
According to Emotional Life: Family, Friends, and lovers, the development of an attachment disorder can include many affects on Wendy’s behaviors during her childhood. The video demonstrates that Wendy’s anxious-avoidant attachment style that she has developed with her mother, Sierra, could cause Wendy to have issues forming relationships with others outside of her family unit. Wendy will most likely struggle with social interactions and boundaries such as touching others, and reading various social cues. As far as the possibility of a future romantic relationships for Sierra’s children, it has been suggested that persons with an avoidant attachment will experience more negative feelings in their relationships than those with secure attachments. When Wendy ages, and possibly has children of her own, she may pass her anxious-avoidant tendencies onto her children, who will in turn develop the same patterns.
References:
Fraley, C.R. (2010). A brief overview of adult attachment theory and research. University of Illinois. Retrieved from http://internal.psychology.illinois.edu/~rcfraley/attachment.htm
Simpson, J. (1990). Influence of attachment styles on romantic relationships
[Abstract]. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol 59(5), Nov 1990,
971-980. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.59.5.971
3. Can Sierra legally seek financial support from her ex-fiancee because he is the father of her two children? What child support plans can Sierra look into?
ReplyDeleteYes, Sierra can legally claim child support from her ex-fiancee, but several steps must be taken. First, due to their lack of marriage, Wendy’s father has no obligation to Wendy until paternity is established. Paternity is established by a court proceeding or a signature on a legal document acknowledging oneself as the father, but a DNA test will likely be requested first. Once established, the courts will then determine the amount of child support the father must provide. If the father is present, he can submit a financial statement and be involved in the support ordered. If he is not at the court proceedings, the judge will determine the amount without his input. After the judge orders the amount, the father is liable to make payments until Wendy’s nineteenth birthday or her graduation date, whichever comes first. The typical amount of child support is 20% for one child, and 25% for two, based on monthly net income. It is important to note that when paternity is established, the father still has no legal visitation rights to the child until the court grants this right. Child support can be collected through a third party agency. Failure to make several payments may result in consequences, such as a revoked drivers license or possibly jail time. Even a small payment, not the full amount, is more beneficial to the father than skipping payments altogether.
References
Rich’s Enterprises. (2012). Child support collections. Retrieved from
http://www.child-support-collections.com/
From the Ahmad Nassar Group :::
ReplyDelete1. What may have influenced Wendy and her mother’s strained relationship?
One major factor that may have influenced Wendy and Sierra’s relationship is Sierra’s depression. Sierra goes through mood swings and although she has tried to take control of these emotions through medication, it has not helped. Sierra’s depression may have affected how she treats Wendy, as Sierra mentioned that she didn’t even know how to respond to Wendy’s needs. Instead of providing Wendy with a loving and happy environment, Sierra’s depression has created a more isolated and gloomy atmosphere. In addition, the fact that Sierra is a single parent most likely has added to their strained relationship. Sierra’s boyfriend left a little before Wendy was born, leaving her all alone to raise two children. Sierra receives no support from family or anyone and really is quite isolated. This loneliness most likely affects Sierra’s relationship with Wendy because she feels stressed and helpless, which does not help her depression. Overall, I think one of the major factors that have influenced Wendy and Sierra’s strained relationship is Sierra’s depression.
2. How might Sierra react in light of her feelings towards Wendy and Wendy’s tendency to be “inconsolable”?
Well it turns out that in the next blog post Sierra responded to her feelings by deciding to basically pull herself away from Wendy. Sierra said that she ignores Wendy, which is easier to do because she is distracted by her new love interest, Dan. Unfortunately, this withdrawal will only hurt their mother-daughter relationship more. Sierra needs to realize that by ignoring Wendy she is sending Wendy the wrong messages about what family and love is about. Hopefully Sierra continues to go to her parenting group so they can help her develop different strategies to handle Wendy.
From the Lisa Yoo Group :::
ReplyDelete1. Sierra has been suffering from depression. This single father that she met at the group might be interested in her, but if she pursues this possible relationship, what effects will that have on her life as a mother? Will it take away from her attachment problem with Wendy? Or is it possible that with another single parent in her life, she can learn to cope better?
With the reference from the recent blog post, having a romantic relationship impacted the relationship between Wendy and Sierra negatively. Sierra says that she ignores Wendy in hopes of making with the situations in her life easier, and instead she has started a romantic relationship with a single father. Since she has already been ignoring Wendy, it can turn into further neglect as she becomes more committed to the romantic relationship with this man. If Sierra continues to neglect Wendy, she may cause Wendy to have an even greater anxious-avoidant attachment issue. Sierra may have a distraction with a new romantic relationship, but she needs focus on the relationship between her and Wendy before Wendy becomes out of control. Sierra may learn to cope with her own issues, but may not be able to cope with Wendy’s issues unless the new romantic partner is willing to focus attention on Wendy’s issues as well.
References:
Becker-Weldman, A. (2005). Child abuse and neglect: effects on child development,
brain development, and interpersonal relationships. International Adoption
Articles Directory. Retrieved from www.adoptionarticlesdirectory.com/
Article/Child-Abuse-and-Neglect—Effects-on-child-development--brain-development--and-interpersonal-relationships/42
2, Is there any other possible reason that Wendy could have this attachment issue? From decision point response, it is made to sound as if Sierra gets help for her depression, Wendy will be “cured” of her attachment issue. Could it be possible that there is something wrong developmentally or chemically in Wendy instead of just in Sierra?
There may be other possible reasons why Wendy may have an attachment issue, such as the lack of support from both parents as her father is not an active role in her life. Since Wendy is typically ignored by her mother when she is trying to communicate her needs, this could have led to the attachment issue that she has today. Wendy could possibly have a developmental issue due to the neglect from Sierra and the depression Sierra is experiencing since children learn acceptable mental processes from their parents. If she does not have the best home environment and is growing up surrounded by negative thoughts and ideas, then she may express a negative behavior herself. If Sierra and other loved ones around her work on their relationships, then Wendy may not have an attachment issue in the future.
References:
Becker-Weldman, A. (2005). Child abuse and neglect: Effects on child development, brain development, and interpersonal relationships. International Adoption
Articles Directory. Retrieved from http://www.adoptionarticlesdirectory.com/Article/Child-Abuse-and-Neglect--Effects-on-child-development--brain-development--and-interpersonal-relationships/42