Case Study – 13-Year-Old Jacob

A ‘Puzzle Pieces and Planning’ Consultation

The Story…

Parents sought consultation with The Guided Child to gain ‘tools to help Jacob’, as they felt he lacked an awareness of social situations, as well as being disorganised and frequently late’ which lead to anxious behaviours and outbursts. They reported Jacob ‘did not like to be wrong’ and this could lead to disrespectful behaviours directed towards his parents. These behaviours are having a significant effect on family home life and parents were keen to understand strategies that may help the situation. 

The outcome…

After meeting Jacob, talking with Jacob’s parents and understanding their concerns, various meetings with Jacob’s high school teachers were made. All teachers reported a very different behaviour profile at school and described Jacob as a capable, well-liked and diligent student. Upon further questioning, some traits were coming out at school, but nothing the teachers were particularly concerned about. When everything was put together, it appeared Caleb was exhibiting some perspective rigidity, and needed help with executive functioning skill development, particularly in the home environment. After working through the options, parents felt that further consultation with a specialist ‘Social Thinking’ provider was right for Jacob and themselves. Intervention with this provider proved effective and Jacob made solid progress.