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.
