Question

A 14-year old Asian American student is referred to a family agency because of the student's recent poor academic performance and behavioral changes, including lack of paying attention and social withdrawal. During the second family therapy session, the student angrily states that she is tired of the painful physical punishment from her father for "trying to fit in with her friends at school." The father notes that the punishment is necessary to prevent his daughter from imitating the behaviors of he American friends and thus bringing shame to the family. The social worker should FIRST

A. assist the parents to explore alternative modes of discipline
B. inform the parents that their behavior requires a report of suspected abuse
C. attempt to determine the severity of the physical punishment
D. help the daughter understand her parents' behavior as culturally appropriate

Answer 1

The social worker's immediate action should be to inform the parents that their behavior may constitute abuse and requires reporting. Physical punishment can lead to negative outcomes, and child safety is the top priority, even when considering cultural norms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The social worker should inform the parents that their behavior requires a report of suspected abuse. While parental socialization and disciplinary methods can vary by culture, education, and historical context, in contemporary society, certain practices once considered appropriate may now be deemed child abuse. Physical punishment, particularly when it leads to behavioral changes like those described by the 14-year-old Asian American student, may need to be investigated for the child's safety. Social workers have a duty to report suspected abuse and to consider the well-being of the child their primary concern. Studies have shown that physical punishment, like spanking, may not be effective and can lead to aggression and antisocial behavior in children.

Child abuse has been identified across all socioeconomic and educational levels, transcending cultural and ethnic lines. Parents under stress may demonstrate resilience and not resort to abuse, but this is not always the case. Historically, some cultural practices did include physical forms of discipline, and while there needs to be sensitivity to different cultural perspectives, child safety is paramount. It is critical to note that many educational establishments have now banned corporal punishment due to its potential negative impacts.