Joe, Age 13, Has Been Acting Out Since His Mother

question 21

Multiple Choice

Joe, age 13, has been acting out since his mother moved her boyfriend into the house a few months ago. Marge is angry with his reaction since she has been divorced for five years and thinks that she has a right to a life of her own. Joe has indicated that he feels misplaced by her boyfriend and wants to live with his father. Marge and Joe came to the counseling center to deal with her frustration and guilt regarding the situation. It would be best to start with which of the following?

• A) Talk to the mother about her selfishness concerning meeting her own needs at the expense of her son's feelings.
• B) Confront Joe about his acting-out behavior and ask what he might do to make the situation with his mother healthier.
• C) Act as a mediator, giving each of them a chance to share their thoughts, and seeking empathy from both sides so a decision can be made for the benefit of all concerned.
• D) Self-disclose an experience in which you had to make a decision that produced frustration and guilt.

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Definitions:

Direct Evidence

Evidence that directly proves a fact, without needing inference or presumption.

Circumstantial Evidence

Evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact, rather than direct observation.

Relevant Evidence

Information presented in a legal trial that is directly related to the facts in issue, helping to prove or disprove an element of the case.

Investigation Summary

A comprehensive report summarizing the findings, procedures, and conclusions of a thorough investigation.