Case Study Example on Reason for Referral

Introduction

This case study will be reviewing the case report of Sam Martin, that was provided by his mother Ms. Martin. Sam's mother referred him to a psychological test. This was due to abnormal behavior depicted by Sam displaying difficulty with attention. The main reason for the referral was to evaluate the requirement for his accommodation on the academic-related plan. The evaluation features Sam's emotional and academic issues that are likely to affect his overall performance. Also, if the accommodation program is likely to benefit him.

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To understand Sam's social behavior, there is a need to acknowledge mental retardation and "abnormal psychology." Abnormal Psychology is the studies related to unusual patterns of thoughts, behavior, and emotion that can be known or misunderstood as a mental disorder (Israel, Malatras, & Wicks-Nelson, 2020). Abnormal psychology disorder pacts with behavior in a clinical framework. This field identifies numerous causes for various conditions, engaging different theories from other fields related to psychology. Abnormality is categorized into three comprising of; subnormal, supernormal, and paranormal. It studies two types of behavior disorder, i.e. maladaptive and adaptive behavior.

Academic Concerns

The knowledge required for Sam’s evaluation is majorly on Academic concerns which comprise of; learning difficulties, lack of attention in class, and underachievement. These matters have a significant impact on students’ areas of life, resulting in undue stress on the child as well as affecting homework. Furthermore, the typical academic concern can include; disinterest in particular topics, procrastination, and issues on time management. Most of the academic concerns are linked to childhood mental health. According to research provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, it indicates that 21% of children attending school have been diagnosed to have a condition on mental health (Dalton, Rapa, & Stein,2020).

Background Summary

Sam was raised by natural parents alongside older and younger brothers. Therefore, as a family living with a child with the disorder, they have to adapt to some of their member's personal development. The most important aspect to consider include in such homestead; relationship influence, interaction with others, and developmental significance. According to Israel, et.al, (2020), family members with a child having abnormality disorder are found to be more anxious as well as withdrawn or even depressed to a certain level compare to other families of non-disabled children. The siblings of mental disorder children have shown to express aggressive behavior and difficulties to socialize with their peers.

Additionally, they exhibit psychosomatic illnesses and difficulties in school-related matters. Other issues that affect these families include sibling deprivation and risking behavioral and emotional problems due to social disadvantage. However, studies show that majority of families still are more social and more tolerant. Some of the positive characteristics as a result of bringing up mentally disable children include; increase in maturity, humanitarian apprehensions, a sense of closeness, and togetherness within a family. Potential negative characteristics can include; embarrassment, the feeling of parental neglect, and guilt concerning our health.

Medical

Sam’s medical history at an early age was exceptional. Sam’s mother noted that her son was bright and attained his development milestones. He began to walk at the age of eight months and by 17th month he was able to use complete sentences. Sam learned to tie his shoe at the expected time, but take ages to learn how to ride. Ms. Martin mentioned that at age 12, Sam underwent ear plastic surgery. After the operation, he began showing academic difficulties with the result being below-average grades. The issue could be reinforced by the concussion experienced by Sam due to a car accident. According to Ms. Martin's information, Sam had several friends and different interests as a child. He got involved in various activities such as band, soccer team, and problem-solving club. Moreover, he had several girlfriends.

Educational

Ms. Martin state that her son was an early learner, he began reading while in the kindergarten. It is during his first grade that his teacher noticed that Sam had attention deficit disorder since he was extremely active. However, Sam's academic results were quite excellent cruising from second grade to fifth grade without any issue. Sam complaint about handwriting where he finds it difficult, hence preferred to print. It is on 6th grade that Sam Changed school, the alteration caused difficulties to cope and catch up through to 8th grade. Nevertheless, Sam exhibits great essay writing skills. He also helps his uncle in his paint supply store. Additionally, Sam has a talent for painting.

Behavioral Observations

During the evaluation, Sam who is a fourteen- year old was dressed neatly and appear his stated age. Throughout the evaluation, he was cooperative, alert, responsive, concentrating. Sam's thinking ability with his statement was well connected and coherent. He had adequate judgment, reasoning, and eye contact. Sam exhibit a healthy motor functioning without any abnormalities. The compared evidence of impairment in vision or hearing. His speech was smooth and logical. He shows a good command of the English language. Sam looked focused when handling his task despite working at a slower pace. He finds difficulties in a task requiring to copy design onto a paper since it he admits to causing great discomfort to him.Part III: Assessment Data

Conclusion

The case study reviews the case report of Sam Martin who appears to be a mentally retarded child to some extent, the evaluation focused on resources and themes concerning; Family, Social support which Includes ethnic, racial, cultural, and Medical developmental.