Reference no: EM133565938

Case Study: Cole is a social worker at a domestic violence center that works primarily with residents from the suburbs of a midwestern metropolitan area. George, a client, came to Cole about his inability to manage the anger he expressed toward his spouse of 10 years and their two children, a girl of 8 and a boy of 5. Up to that point in time, George had not engaged in any physi- cal violence toward his family, but he did punch a wall, destroy property, and threaten harm. George's spouse had threatened to divorce George unless he curbed his angry outbursts. Through conversations and role-plays, Cole encouraged George to consider his life stressors. Over several sessions, George came to realize that his anger stemmed from increased work pressures coupled with a decrease in salary and prestige. In fact, people younger than George were being promoted over him. Cole facilitated a process whereby George began to reflect on his strengths. Interestingly enough, George concluded that his spouse and children were sources of strength for him, as was his educational status. George would like to thank Cole for his supportive services by taking him to lunch. Cole respectfully declines the kind offer.

Questions:

1. Why would assessing personal strengths be helpful when attempting to manage anger?

2. How does age play into George's circumstances?

3. What strategies did Cole use to facilitate George's assessment of his life situation?

4. What do you suggest Cole should do next to help George control his anger?

5. Explain why it was necessary for Cole to decline George's lunch invitation.