CASE STUDY
Levi is a 35-year-old man who is HIV positive. He works as an auto mechanic. Since learning that he was HIV positive 10 years ago, Levi has been on medications that have stopped the progression to AIDS, and Levi is fairly healthy. However, the emotional toll has been much more serious. Levi has withdrawn from most social interactions. He has not told anyone in his family, and he has fallen away from most of his friends. He has been able to obtain a variety of medications for anxiety, and often takes more than the prescribed dosage. In addition, he has had a cocaine habit that he views as his only area of excitement in life. His pattern of use is on weekends, or sometimes as a “pick-me-up” to get to work. He tends to use the anti-anxiety medications in the evening to help him relax and sleep. He sees his life slipping away in what has come to feel like an increasingly empty lifestyle. He calls a counselor to talk about his problems.
Overview
In your previous assignment, you identified and analyzed a developmental theory to apply to a case study. In this assignment, you will build on the work you have done by analyzing ecosystems theory and deciding on an actual application from a person-in-environment perspective. As with last time, it is vital to support the application of your chosen theory with scholarly research in the Capella University Library.
Case Study Treatment Plan
For your course project, you will choose from Levi, Elisa, Hofsa, or Robert. The clients in the case studies are ethnically diverse and are struggling with a variety of psychosocial issues.
As you read the case studies, consider the following:
What factors exist within the client’s intersectionality (gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, class, etc.)?
What is the developmental stage of the client and what developmental tasks or crises are associated with this age group?
Who or what is part of the client’s support system?
Systems to consider include family, friends, work, social services, politics, religion, goods and services, and educational systems.
What supports would the client benefit from?
What goals would you establish to improve the client’s situation?