Michael is an 8-year-old male who is in third grade and has started exhibiting behaviors indicative of physical abuse and neglect. He lives at home with both biological parents. Behaviors have included falling asleep in class, not having a sack lunch or money to purchase school lunch, dirty clothes and he appears to be unbathed. The completion and quality of his work has deteriorated. His teacher reported Michael had significant bruising around the eye yesterday in class. When asked about it, he ignored the teacher with no response. His attendance has also been sporadic with no documentation to verify the absence.
Due to these concerns, Michael’s parents were requested to attend a conference at the school with the teacher, counselor and principal. During the conference, his father was agitated about having to attend and his mother wore sunglasses during the meeting, not providing much information.
The following Monday, Michael was in class again. He was having a hard time sitting and appeared uncomfortable. The teacher was walking around the room and noticed Michael lifting up his shirt. There was heavy bruising along the bottom side of his back. Based on the documentation above by staff, the decision was made to report the suspected abuse to social services for investigation.
As the assigned caseworker, you are responsible for drafting the initial case plan that outlines the necessary services for Michael and his parents.
Watch the following video, and then draft a case plan that answers the questions that follow (CDC, 2018):
What behaviors has Michael exhibited that would require service intervention?
Which services would you recommend to address those behaviors?
What services would you offer the parents based on the findings of the investigation?
Does the current placement in a foster home appear to be the appropriate type of placement for Michael based on the allegations and his needs? Why or why not?
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