Essentials of Human Behavior 

Case Study Discussion Questions 

Chapter 16
 
Case Study 16.1: Ms. Ruby Johnson, Caretaker for Three Generations 
 Discuss the major events and turning points in Ruby’s life; what are the patterns
of stability and change reflected in her life trajectories?
 How do Ruby’s caregiving responsibilities for her 89-year-old father and her 16-
year-old granddaughter and her part-time childcare for her coworker’s daughter
affect Ruby’s developmental opportunities in late adulthood?
 Discuss the coordination between the two households of this five-generation
extended family; how typical is this arrangement in low-income ethnic
communities?
 How should the social worker respond to the issues Ruby presents?
 
Case Study 16.2: Margaret Davis Stays at Home
 As a social worker working with this family, discuss how you would negotiate
between autonomy and self-determination and competent practice with the best
interest of the client’s health in mind?
 How does living in a rural area affect these negotiations?
 What might be some of your concerns and reasoning processes?

Case Study 16.4: Bina Patel Outlives Her Son

 Discuss the physical health needs and psychosocial stressors associated with Bina,
her son, and her daughter-in-law.
 How are these complicated culturally? What are the culturally prescribed roles
and rules that you became aware of in this story?
 Discuss the social worker’s dual task regarding the needs of the couple, given the
husband’s failing health and the needs of Bina.
 How do you suggest that the social worker should initially engage with the
couple?
 What possible options need to be explored regarding caregiving for Bina?