the children are often depicted as being able to turn these ideas to their advantage.

In Homecoming’s symbolic and

material economies, questions about trust, risk and value come to the fore, painting a picture of precarious youth that
both reflects and expands existing debates on childhood outside the text. The paper is framed in terms of
entrepreneurialism, the criminality ascribed to unaccompanied children, questions of autonomy and capacity and,
finally, constructions of gender. The story of four children who are abandoned by their parents and are subsequently
brought up by their grandmother. Dicey is the eldest of the four Tillermans, aged 13 in Homecoming, and in this first
novel she leads her siblings on a journey down the east coast of the United States in search of their grandmother.
Much of this quest is undertaken on foot without adult supervision.

Unaccompanied children, Dicey and her siblings experience childness— “the quality of being a child” (Hollindale, p.
47)—as something that defines the parameters of their capabilities. At the same time, their awareness of their
childness allows them to purposefully exploit adult perceptions of childhood as a fragile state to obtain food, shelter
and help. In Homecoming, the transactional nature of childness is emphasised by the main focalising character, Dicey
Tillerman. Dicey adopts the same measured and precise mode of thinking when navigating all aspects of the adult
world, whether working out where she might be able to buy the cheapest food (e.g., pp. 24, 37) or how best to
present herself and her siblings to evade detection or capture. In many ways she appears as an entrepreneur, a self-
interested agent acting autonomously to achieve her own goals.

Planning and intervention:

1. Establish trust and safety: Create a safe and supportive environment for the siblings to share their experiences and
emotions. Our intervention should focus on promoting secure attachment and fostering a sense of trust, support, and
belonging among
2. Provide psychoeducation: Help the siblings understand the impact of abandonment and trauma on their well-being
and provide them with coping strategies.
3. Individual therapy: Offer individual therapy sessions to each sibling to address their unique needs, emotions, and
attachment issues.
4. Group therapy

Case Analysis of Sibling Neglect and Guardianship: A Therapeutic Intervention Plan

Introduction: This paper aims to explore the case of a group of siblings who were
abandoned by their mother in the parking lot of a shopping mall. The oldest sibling, who
will serve as our client, has assumed the responsibility of caring for her younger
siblings.

As a therapeutic intervention, this paper will provide an overview of the case study,
assess potential theories and approaches, outline a planning and intervention strategy,
and propose recommendations for supporting the siblings in their journey of locating
family members and achieving overall well-being.

Overview of the Case: The scenario presents a case of sibling neglect and
guardianship, highlighting the emotional, physical, and psychological impact on the
oldest sibling and her siblings. The sudden abandonment has left the children
vulnerable and exposed to potential risks. As the guardian, our client is facing significant
challenges in providing adequate care while ensuring the emotional and psychological
well-being of her siblings.
Assessment and Theories: To effectively intervene in this case, it is crucial to conduct a
comprehensive assessment to understand the underlying factors contributing to the
neglect and identify the specific needs and strengths of the siblings. The following
theories and approaches may be considered: 1. Attachment Theory: This theory
suggests that abandonment can have detrimental effects on the emotional bond and
relationship between siblings and their guardian.

Our intervention should focus on promoting secure attachment and fostering a sense of
trust, support, and belonging among

Planning and Intervention: Based on the assessment, the following interventions could
be considered:
1. Safety Assessment: The first priority for Dicey and her siblings is to ensure their
safety and well-being. Assessment and planning for their safety, including identifying
potential hazards and creating a safety plan, is crucial.
2. Emotional Support: Dicey and her siblings may experience a range of emotions,
including fear, anxiety, and sadness. Providing emotional support and helping them
process their feelings is important.
3. Psychological Support: Dicey and her siblings may require counseling to help them
cope with the trauma of abandonment and the transition to a new family situation.
4. Social Support: Encouraging Dicey and her siblings to reach out to trusted
individuals, such as family members or friends, can provide them with the support and
resources they need during this challenging time.
5. Legal Assistance: Depending on the circumstances, Dicey and her siblings may be
eligible for legal support, such as temporary guardianship or assistance with finding
appropriate housing.

Conclusion: This case study highlights the importance of assessment and intervention in
addressing the complex situation faced by Jane and her siblings. By using theories and
interventions that consider the individual, family, and societal factors, professionals can
provide the support and resources to help Dicey and her siblings navigate this
challenging time and transition to a new family situation.