SCENERIO
SHOLA
Shola is 15 and lives in a children’s home. The staff group finds it difficult to keep her within the safe limits of the home. Shola is using drugs and socialising with local gang members associated with violence and police involvements. Following a visit to her mother’s over the holiday break, Shola’s behaviour changes. She no longer goes out and becomes withdrawn and lethargic. She stops eating regularly. For once, she allows the staff to care for and about her. They are attentive and responsive. Then, one night, Shola cuts her wrists. When asked, as she begins to recover, what has prompted her to attempt suicide, she tells the social worker that she feels completely worthless.
Decide which social work theory can be applied as the main focus of your work. Tell the story of what happens (you can add your own details about the and circumstances). Explain the theory and how it is used in the work. Describe the interaction between people as the work progresses. Discuss what social work skills are being used. You can show how other theories also relate. Give a critical commentary on the unfolding scenario.
