Adolescent Case Study: American Public School System

ADOLESCENT CASE STUDY
Michelle Boyd
EDUC 501 Human Growth and Development
American Public University System
Dr. Delicia Fellers
October 26, 2014
Adolescent Case Study

Brandy is a fourteen year old teenager who up until now has not had any problems making decisions and navigating through life. Brandy lives in an urban city where poverty, crime, drug abuse and teenage pregnancy are high risk factors in the community. Brandy’s mother has a college degree but due to the lack of employment opportunities in her community she has been unemployed for the last two years. Her father works long hours in a factory because of the long hours he doesn’t spend a lot of time with the family. As an infant she felt a sense of security because her
The counselor, “support academic achievement and student development.” (ASCA National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs, 2012) As the school counselor it is important for one to address both the academic concerns and behavior problems. Based on available data the counselor needs to address several issues that are a concern for Brady. Brandy is no longer has an aspiration to meet academic achievements, she has not been meeting the school attendance policy and her behavioral inside and outside of school is of a concern. Based on best practices the counselor has decided to conduct individual counseling sessions with Brandy to identity issues that are blocking her from enjoying school and wanting excel in her academics. The role of the counselor is to help students set goals, find alternatives and possible solutions to their problems and take responsibility for their actions. In a confidential setting the counselor assessed Brandy academic and behavior concerns and determined she would benefit from a referral to an outside mental health agency. The role of the school counselor is goal-orientated, providing minimum counseling services. For in-depth and more serious issues and due to legal and ethical reasons the counselor must not try to diagnosed students. Brandy counselor contacted her parents to facilitate a meeting to discuss Brandy’s
A student who is troubled, however, cannot learn as easily. School counselors can help. Divorce, substance abuse, child abuse, poverty, violence and suicidal thoughts are among the social stressors placing numerous students at-risk of educational failure and dropping out of school. Early intervention is essential, and parents and guardians play a vital role.” ( (Brenda Melton, 2007) The goal of Brandy counselor was to discuss academic, personal and social concerns as they related to Brandy. Brandy has numerous risk factors that are causing her to fail school, substance abuse, poverty, pressure, self-esteem and risky sexual behavior. Brandy, the counselor, and her parents discussed her absentees from school, her desire to drop out of school and her risky behavior. The counselor discussed Brandy’s previous test scores, her strengths and her weaknesses. Brandy’s parents never had to set boundaries or guidelines for Brandy and asked the counselor for suggestions. The counselor felt it was necessary for Brandy to know that because of her actions and past decisions she has to learn from the consequences of her actions. Her parents have to be firm and willing to communicate and follow through on decisions made and goal-setting plans. Brandy’s counselor also provided referrals to community organizations that offer long-term counseling, substance abuse classes and family counseling. Her counselor encouraged her parents to display positive attitudes