Ping Is a Social Worker at a Mental Health Center

question 10

Short Answer

Ping is a social worker at a mental health center that provides individual and group counseling for a wide range of problems and issues. One of Ping's clients is Cheyenne, age 14, who is depressed and potentially suicidal. During one of their individual counseling sessions Cheyenne tells Ping that she is sexually active. She states that if she gets pregnant with her current boyfriend, she will surely kill herself. Cheyenne asks Ping to help her get some form of contraception, possibly from Planned Parenthood. Cheyenne indicates her boyfriend refuses to use condoms because he says he doesn't like to feel restricted. Ping knows Cheyenne's parents are very religious and are fervently against premarital sex. They would never consent to Cheyenne using contraception. They would vehemently not allow Ping to interfere in this matter. But, what about Cheyenne's life and well-being? What should Ping do?

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Definitions:

Deviant Acts

Behaviors that violate the norms or expectations of a society or group.

Stigmatization

The process of discrediting individuals or groups by labeling them as less desirable or acceptable based on certain characteristics or behaviors.

African Americans

A term used to refer to citizens or residents of the United States who have total or partial ancestry from any of the Black racial groups of Africa.

Passing

The act of being perceived as a member of an identity group to which one does not belong, often to avoid stigma or discrimination.