Child Development Case Study Analysis

In a 6–8 page, double-spaced paper, address each of the following components:

1. Provide an introduction to your analysis—a brief recap of the case.
2. Discuss whether or not you believe this child has developed a secure attachment to a parent or caregiver and provide specific reasons from the case (and readings) to support your position. Discuss how Timothy’s attachment to his parents has impacted his development throughout his childhood and give examples from each stage.
3. Use Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model to discuss the contextual and ecological factors such as poverty, education, the environment of the home, and poor quality child care.
4. What is the prognosis for this child if he does not receive treatment? What treatment might be successful in helping this child? Use the Capella library to find at least two peer-reviewed articles that focus on disordered attachments and their treatment.
5. After reviewing the information on careers in child psychology, discuss how at least one type of provider might work with Timothy’s family. Also, discuss this career in pediatric psychology and the impact of this field on child development.
6. Discuss at least one ethical consideration that a pediatric provider may need to be aware of when working with a family.
7. After reflecting on this case, consider the implications for policy. Provide an example of how can we use our understanding of early bonding to inform policy.
8. Provide a reference list.

Early Years

At 26 months, Timothy was referred to child services for evaluation because he was “out of control.” His parents, Alice and Steve, referred to him as a “holy terror.” According to the parents, when Timothy was told “no,” he threw himself on the floor kicking and screaming and he would hit and kick any adults when they approached. When Timothy became very upset he would bang his head on the floor and bite himself.

Home life

History reveals considerable violence at home between Alice and Steve which Timothy often witnesses. Steve frequently found himself in between jobs. His mother worked long, overnight shifts for a minimum wage salary. Both parents regularly used spanking as method of discipline.

Daycare

Timothy spent 10 hours per day at an illegal daycare home where one caregiver was responsible for 12 children all under the age of four. The caregiver used spanking to discipline Timothy and the other children in her care. Timothy’s mother often picked in a soiled pamper and with a pacifier in his mouth. The parents had some concerns about the Timothy’s childcare—including unsanitary conditions, and snacks consisting of potato chips and cookies; they did not believe they had any choice however. The high-quality care centers in their area are too expensive.

Elementary Years

At age six, Timothy was enrolled in a first-grade public school program. He never attended any formal preschool or kindergarten program. Timothy’s teacher reported that he had difficulty making friends and was often seen playing on his own during recess. He rarely came to school prepared with the needed supplies or with his homework completed. Timothy occasionally had an angry, frustrated reaction to his teacher and often ignored the classroom rules.

Adolescence

At age 11, Timothy was held back from being promoted to sixth grade. His academics were far below what would be expected for a fifth-grade student and he struggled with both reading and writing. Timothy had few friends and was suspended briefly for hitting another student over a minor disagreement.

 

"Looking for a Similar Assignment? Order now and Get 10% Discount! Use Code "Newclient"

[promo2]