‘I Don’t Want To Lose My Baby’

Abstract

It is now time for action; time to leave our desks and immerse ourselves, confidently, determinedly, in the chaotic crises of clients in their homes, on their streets,amongst their families, friends and neighbours. In the following case history, I will continue focusing upon significant characteristics of the family and environmental contexts: the poverty, vitality, chaos, fear, anger and distress; and upon the demands and pressures made by numerous crisis participants, including other agencies. It will be seen how characteristics like these dictate to some extent the course of the crisis, and how the social worker may and does respond. The impact of clients’ perceptions of the social worker will be described — so often a destructive impact. The order of theory will be imposed upon the chaos, revealing patterns in relationships, processes and communication. And family therapy principles and techniques will be used to enhance the quality of both. Finally, the narrative will highlight those moments of greatest moral and professional vulnerability during the intervention process.