For Part I of this assignment, you will apply a developmental lens to understand an adolescent concern before jumping to conclusions or solutions. Counselors often need to slow down and think carefully about what may be happening developmentally for a young person before deciding how to respond. You will choose one adolescent case topic and write a brief case conceptualization. The goal is not diagnosis or treatment planning. Instead, you will practice identifying developmental influences, possible risk and protective factors, and an appropriate initial counseling stance. This assignment will also prepare you for the collaborative case consultation discussion that follows.
Choose one adolescent case topic from the list below (Also mentioned in the assigned chapters for this module). Imagine that this concern has been brought to a counselor’s attention by a parent, teacher, or the student themselves. Your task is to write a brief case conceptualization that examines the concern through a developmental lens. You are not diagnosing or creating a full treatment plan. Instead, focus on understanding the developmental context of the behavior and how a counselor might begin responding. Case Topic Selected: • Anorexia or Disordered Eating Required Sections Use clear headings and address the following areas in your conceptualization: Developmental Context Describe what is typical for adolescents in this stage of development. Consider cognitive, emotional, social, and identity development. Connect your explanation to ideas from the course readings. Meaning of the Behavior What might this behavior be communicating or accomplishing for the adolescent? Consider possible developmental needs such as belonging, autonomy, identity formation, or coping. Risk and Protective Factors Identify factors that may increase or reduce concern. Consider family relationships, peer influences, school experiences, biological factors, or personal strengths. Initial Counselor Approach Describe how you might begin approaching this situation as a counselor. Consider your tone and stance. Provide 1–2 example statements you might say in an early conversation with the adolescent or caregivers. Also mention anything you would avoid doing too quickly. Submission Guidelines • Length: approximately 2–3 pages • Use section headings for clarity • Refer to course readings where appropriate • Submit your document in here in Bb