Reference no: EM133299377

Case Study: Alberto (thirty-eight years old) and Maria (thirty-three years old), both born in Italy migrated to Australia twenty years ago. They have one child Daniela (ten-years old).

The couple has recently separated and has filed for divorce. Both parents have agreed to joint custody of Daniela and she lives with her mother Maria during the week and spends weekends with her father Alberto. The family is financially secure and Alberto is a successful businessman with his own import and export business, which requires regular trips overseas. Maria works part-time and volunteers in the community. Both parents are now housed in separate homes, which are located within easy walking distance.

Despite having few relatives living in Australia the family has developed strong social networks and is considered upstanding members of the community. As Catholics, all members of the family regularly attend church and actively participate in religious activities. Daniela attends a private Catholic School and attends after school care, which is held at your Community Centre several times a week. Last week, Ilhan one of the workers approaches you and lets you know he has some worries about Daniela who appears to be talking a lot about sexual acts with other children. Ilhan says he is unsure if it is natural child development stuff or should be a concern. He also says that Daniela when asked to stop discussing these matters, she gets quiet, withdrawals and plays alone.

The next afternoon you seek out Daniela and explain to him that Ilhan has been worried about her and you ask if there is anything Daniela would like to talk to you about. Daniela strongly denies that there is anything that is worrying or upsetting her, apart from the recent separation of her parents. During this discussion, Daniela keeps her eyes diverted from yours and continually fidgets on her seat. You do not think that Daniela was completely honest with you during the conversation you shared. The family is well known and respected in the community and you are aware that the principal of the school is a friend of the family. You are unaware of any family history of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect or psychological harm. You understand that an interest in sex and children seeking information or pictures that explain body functions is considered 'normal' sexual behaviour for children of her age.

During the next weekly staff other members of staff raise meeting Daniela's changing behavior. Luma comments that there has been a drop in Daniela's participation in activities and social interactions. Others also comment that in the when playing with other children, Daniela has a pre-occupation with sex play and recently has explicitly described sexual acts to other children. That afternoon, you gently approach Daniela, and after a short time she begins to cry and clearly tells that you her father has been making her look at rude photos of young children on his computer and this makes Daniela feel uncomfortable and confused.

Question 1: Was the decision "Report to or Immediate report to DCJ"? YES OR NO (circle)

• What would you do next?

Question 2: What strategies would you implement for the ongoing monitoring and support of the family and children as a worker?

Question 3: What services could you refer the family and/or children to for support?