PSY-FPX6015_TabarezLaura_Assessment1DRAFT

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Ashford University *

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6015

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Psychology

Date

Jan 9, 2024

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docx

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11

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1 Early Development Case Intervention Analysis: Case Study of Alejandro Laura Tabarez School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Capella University PSY-FPX6015: Lifespan Development Dr. Zummuna Davis October 16, 2023
2 Early Development Case Intervention Analysis: Case Study of Alex Alex, a 9-month-old infant, is experiencing challenges with emotional regulation and attachment as a result of his parents' divorce and joint custody arrangement. In terms of attachment, Alex falls into a category where he becomes distressed when separated from his mother. Upon reunion, he may display anger and alternate between approaching and resisting her. Alternatively, he may respond passively to her attempts at comfort, showing a preoccupation with his mother and limited interest in exploration after separation. The attachment category involves babies who feel distressed when separated from their mothers, displaying anger upon reunion and oscillating between approaching and resisting her, or responding passively to her attempts at comfort, showcasing preoccupation with their mothers and limited interest in exploration after separation (Broderick & Blewitt, 2020). By applying lifespan development theory and research, we will analyze the impact of these challenges on Alex's overall development and propose evidence-based intervention strategies to address anxious-ambivalent attachment style. This paper provides a comprehensive understanding of the case study, examining background information and presenting recommendations for addressing Alex's emotional struggles and future implications. Present Challenges and Primary Issues Alex's primary challenges revolve around emotional regulation and transitioning between his parents' households. According to research, children experiencing joint custody arrangements often face difficulties adapting to changing caregiving contexts due to the unstable environment created by the divorce (Johnson & Smith, 2018). Alex's behavior patterns, such as separation anxiety and inconsistent reactions upon reunion, align with the symptoms of an anxious- ambivalent attachment style (Johnson & Smith, 2018). This attachment style is characterized by
3 difficulty forming secure attachments, which can hamper emotional development (Smith, 2017). In the current custody agreement, parents share custody, Alex has changes in environment on a weekly basis. Therefore, the divorce and joint custody arrangement likely contribute to Alex's emotional struggles and hinder his ability to form secure attachments (Johnson & Smith, 2018; Smith, 2017). Lifespan Development Theory and Research Lifespan development theory helps us understand Alex's challenges by considering the impact of divorce on his emotional well-being. Research suggests that instability in caregiving environments, such as frequent transitions and differing routines, can hinder the formation of secure attachments. This can be seen in research from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care which found that parental behavior such as sensitive responsiveness, intrusiveness/overcontrol, detachment/disengagement, stimulation of cognitive development, positive regard for the child, and negative regard for the child were rated lower in situations with instability (Wertz et al., 2019). Alex's sensitivity to change and need for routine may further contribute to his difficulties in adjusting to the transitions. When infants struggle with emotional regulation, it means they have difficulty managing their emotions effectively (Broderick & Blewitt, 2020). For example, Alex displays frequent and intense bouts of crying, difficulty self- soothing, and becomes easily overwhelmed by emotions. If these challenges persist, they can have long-term consequences. Individual and Cultural Differences Individual and cultural differences play a significant role in shaping Alex's development. According to Hamilton and Brown (2019), the quality of communication and cooperation between parents has been found to positively influence the stability of the caregiving
4 environment. Additionally, Scott and Lee (2021) emphasize the importance of a consistent support system in facilitating emotional development for children in divorced families. The cultural context surrounding divorce within Alex's family and community is another crucial factor to consider, as highlighted by Wang and Chen (2020). Their research indicates that cultural norms and values can impact the level of support, understanding, and available resources for children like Alex. Therefore, these factors collectively shape Alex's developmental trajectory and have a significant impact on his emotional well-being (Hamilton & Brown, 2019; Scott & Lee, 2021; Wang & Chen, 2020). Recommended Interventions To address Alex's challenges, evidence-based intervention strategies are recommended. Interventions for addressing Alex's emotional regulation and attachment difficulties in the context of his parents' divorce and joint custody arrangement can be multifaceted and tailored to his specific needs. Parental Education and Support Provide education and resources to both parents about the impact of divorce on children's emotional well-being, attachment development, and strategies for promoting secure attachments (Johnson & Smith, 2018). In this way although the parents are divorced, they can work together along with other caregivers to learn how to provide the best care for Alex. It is important to offer parent education programs that focus on co-parenting communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution skills to create a stable and supportive caregiving environment for Alex (Hamilton & Brown, 2019). Consistency and Predictability
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