Chapter 7- Lord's prayer

David has gone through so much, he's lost hope. He's developed a "shell" that didn't allow people into his life. David called his mother "the bitch" more in this chapter, and even at points mention how he wished his mother would die.

This is a tough thing for CYC's or any profession to deal with. I would use an intervention skill that Dr. Perry used with Virginia and Laura. Virginia was not loved, cuddled, and experience what it means to be held as a child, which effected how she raised her daughter, Laura. This stunt her growth, and she was unable to develop a healthy relationship with her mother, or other people. Dr. Perry suggested moving with a woman named Mama P. Mama P. mentored Virginia in how to love Laura and help Laura to develop physically and mentally.

This would be an excellent way David can build attachment, and develop healthy relationships with other people. David was at an age when he was about to hit puberty, and his brain was like sponge. David's body was willing to grow, and willing to learn. If David gets to experience love and feel a belonged somewhere, his stress level in his brain will decrease, and his guard and hard exterior will soften.
Here is an excellent from by Dr. Dan Siegel talking about trauma and how we raise kids, and the connection and impact it has on the brain.

What happened to David? He got older. Married and had a son of his home. He lived a happier life.

The CYC profession does not always get to see the outcome from the work we do with children and youth, but know every moment we spend helping them is a small step forward to a healthier life. Keep an open mind. CYC's always use more than one interventions, and always have a toolkit of activities at their disposal.

Build a relationship. Listen to what they. Identify their needs and their strengths. Be positive.

Kevin Francis
3rd year Child and Youth Worker
Sheridan College