Crisis Interviewing Michael is a fourth-grade student whose fam ✓ Solved

Michael is a fourth-grade student whose family has recently moved from a small town in Nebraska to a large city in California. His parents and two sisters are acclimating very well to their new home, but Michael seems to be struggling with the change. He has become withdrawn both at home and at school, and he shows little interest in learning or in making new friends. Lucille, 48, is dean of students at a prestigious university. Her close friend and professional mentor has recently been in the media spotlight due to her role in a cheating scandal that resulted in three student expulsions. Lucille is upset because her friend believes Lucille reported her to the administration. Meanwhile, some faculty members have suggested that Lucille must have known about her colleague’s behavior. Lucille is distraught and cannot concentrate. Dan has just returned from military combat, where he observed several deaths. He thinks he is fine, but he is experiencing insomnia. His family has urged him to seek therapy. Which of these individuals is experiencing the most acute crisis? What kind of interviewing skills are needed to help each individual? This week, you will consider the individual nature of crisis responses and explore interview approaches. You will explore the concept of psychological first aid and strategies for working effectively with people experiencing crises.

Paper For Above Instructions

Coping with crises entails unique challenges for individuals, as seen in the cases of Michael, Lucille, and Dan. Each individual represents different facets of crisis and requires tailored approaches in interviewing to provide effective psychological first aid.

Understanding Michael’s Crisis

Michael's situation reflects an adaptation crisis, which is often seen in children relocating to new environments. His withdrawal and disinterest in learning highlight emotional upheaval. Children in such crises often exhibit behavioral changes due to the stress of acclimatization. Interviewing Michael requires skills that facilitate a safe and supportive environment where he can express his feelings and thoughts.

Two psychological first aid strategies for interviewing Michael include active listening and encouraging expression. Active listening involves paying full attention, acknowledging verbal and non-verbal cues, and validating his feelings (World Health Organization, 2011). This will help Michael feel heard and understood, essential for building trust.

To encourage expression, open-ended questions can be employed. For example, asking Michael, “Can you share how you feel about moving to California?” will prompt him to articulate his emotions instead of shutting down. Another question might be, “What do you miss most about your old home?” This will allow Michael to reflect on his past while exploring his feelings in a non-threatening manner.

Addressing Lucille’s Distress

Lucille is experiencing distress linked to professional relationships and social perceptions due to her friend's cheating scandal, which can cause significant psychological strain. Interviews with Lucille should focus on establishing emotional safety and clarity in her concerns.

One strategy is to employ reframing, which can help Lucille view her situation from a different perspective, reducing feelings of guilt and blame. For instance, an interviewer might say, “It sounds like you are feeling misunderstood. Can you talk more about how your friend’s situation has affected your emotional state?”

Another effective strategy is to conduct a strengths-based assessment. For instance, asking questions like, “What qualities do you believe make you a good friend and professional?” can help Lucille rediscover her positive attributes amidst the chaos. A follow-up question could be, “What support do you feel you need to overcome this situation?” This encourages problem-solving and self-efficacy.

Supporting Dan’s Transition

Dan’s experience reveals the aftermath of a traumatic combat experience, indicating PTSD symptoms such as insomnia. Interviews focusing on trauma require sensitivity and awareness of potential triggers. A crucial skill here is establishing rapport through empathy.

One interviewing strategy to aid Dan is normalizing the experience of trauma, which can validate his feelings and reduce isolation. A suitable question might be, “Many veterans experience challenges adjusting after combat; how has this transition felt for you?”

Another important strategy is exploring coping mechanisms. Asking, “What methods have you tried to manage your insomnia?” provides insight into his emotional state while guiding positive change if necessary. A follow-up could involve “How can we work together to create a plan that prioritizes your well-being?”

Conclusion

In summary, Michael, Lucille, and Dan each face distinct crises that necessitate individualized interviewing strategies. By leveraging psychological first aid techniques of active listening, reframing, and emotional validation, human services professionals can effectively support these individuals. The tailored approach to interviewing not only helps in providing immediate psychological support but also lays the groundwork for long-term emotional resilience and recovery.

References

• McClam, T., & Woodside, M. (2012). The helping process: Assessment to termination. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning.
• Forbinger, L., & Johannpeter, K. (2011). The shattered mask: A red-flag carry-in interview. Reclaiming Children & Youth, 20(1), 54–58.
• Morton, J. (2009). Crisis resolution: A service response to mental distress. Practice: Social Work in Action, 21(3), 143–158.
• World Health Organization. (2011). Psychological first aid: Guide for field workers. Geneva, Switzerland: Author.
• Laureate Education, Inc. (2012). Effective human services interviewing: Michael: Scenario 1. Baltimore, MD: Author.
• Laureate Education, Inc. (2012). Effective human services interviewing: Lucille: Scenario 2. Baltimore, MD: Author.
• Laureate Education, Inc. (2012). Effective human services interviewing: Dan: Scenario 3. Baltimore, MD: Author.
• Rosenberg, H. (2012). Making sense of trauma: The importance of trauma-informed care. International Journal of Social Work, 28(2), 123–134.
• Harris, M. (2015). The dynamics of trauma: Implications for intervention. Journal of Counseling and Development, 93(4), 438–445.
• Stein, L. (2017). Building resilience through crisis intervention and psychological first aid. Community Mental Health Journal, 53(2), 145–151.