“Can a social worker help improve my son's behavior?”
My son gets into fights at school. It's happened once or twice, and all the school has done was suspend both of those times, for five days. If it happens again, he would get an even longer suspension, and then after that expulsion. I feel like I've done a lot at home to try and correct this, but he doesn't listen to me. Should I see if he can talk to his school's social worker about his behavior? I'm surprised his school hasn't referred him to her yet.
9 Answers
That is an excellent question. It would depend on the type of social worker that your son's school has. The school social worker can identify problematic behavior and find its underlying cause. However, you would want a Licensed Clinical Social Worker or even the school psychologist (if there is one) to evaluate for behavior driven by mental health disorders. Once the origins of the behavior are identified, a mental health professional, whether a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, or Psychologist, can work with your son to modify the behavior. These professionals may involve other para-professionals for behavioral training, which I also recommend. But to your question, yes, social workers may be able to help your son's behavior.
This is a great question and I am glad you have reached out. I would absolutely talk to the school social worker about the behavior. Additionally, it wouldn't hurt to request a referral for counseling or see if counseling is offered at the school, some schools have embedded counseling programs at school. Now, I dont know the age of your son so depending on the age there are targeted behavioral therapies that a counselor or school social worker can provide in conjunction with the teachers. Its possible that this could lead to a 504 plan or IEP that supports your child with their educational goals and learning while also keeping them in school and meeting their social and emotional needs. Fighting can be an external action to an internal unmet need and the school can partner with you to support you and your son in understanding what is going on.
Yes, most schools have a school therapist that can help him. If not you can look for other Outpatient therapy in your area.
If a child is getting into fights at school, he should be referred to the social worker either by administration or the parent. Since staff are overworked, they do not always have the opportunity to communicate each situation to the social worker. As a parent, take control of the situation and refer him to both the school social worker and an outside therapist. A child who does not learn after one instance of suspension is at risk for many social, emotional, and legal issues throughout their life. There is no single treatment for aggression. The key is to communicate with your child in a non-confrontational and non-judgmental manner to find out what is occurring in their mind. Your child may be struggling in school, being bullied, coping with depression, coping with a loss, or even being abused by someone in the community. When your child becomes aggressive, try to ask what they need instead of scolding them. Once they feel that you do not understand, they are much less likely to open up and tell you the truth.
A social worker can advocate for a child if it is warranted. I would want to know more details about why there was a fight and the nature of the fighting. If this is a result of bullying, then certainly the social worker could work to address these issues.
If your school has access to a social worker, most definitely. Something is bothering him and he needs to feel free to express himself in a safe place. If he is angry with you, then by talking ii out with a professional will be very helpful. If there is no social worker available, I would recommend investigating the option of a therapist. Perhaps your district has financial assistance for children.
If your school district or school has a social worker they could definitely intervene. Most school districts also have behavioral support therapists and counselors. I am not sure what grade he is in? I'd start with speaking with the teacher or administration about your concerns and they can direct you appropriately.
A good psychotherapist with experience in this field covered by Medicaid or your insurance would be the best place to start.You can then together approach the school. Please do this as soon as possible.
Yes, a social worker is an excellent resource to the school system, teachers, students, and parents. Though your son’s grade level is not mentioned, there may also be a guidance counselor who can work in tandem with the social worker to identify the underlying issues. The Student Assistance Program (also referred to as SAP) may be another resource the school can employ. Inquire as to if your son’s school has such a program in place. May you have success with your process and I wish your son peace and wellness.
