Question

Analyze each stress situation by applying the components of the ABC-X Model. (A=Stressor, the thing that's causing the stress, life events that result in or require a family to change, B=Resources, things that can help them take care of the stress, internal or external and range from tangible (money, education/degrees earned) to intangible (social support systems), C=Perception, how the family is perceiving the stress, (1) How does the family view or define the problem? and (2) What is their understanding of the situation that resulted in the problem?, X=Crisis, when a family cannot put the stress event into perspective in a way that lets them manage it effectively)

SCENARIO #4—The Deas Family Justin’s job has required him to move his wife and children from Columbus to a rural farm community. When searching for homes in the new community, Justin and his wife were told by the realtor that, “We might have a difficult time finding a place where you’ll feel at home here. After all, you’re the first African-American family to move here for as long as I can remember.” A couple of weeks into their move, Alena was shocked when their 7 year old daughter came home crying because two of the children at school were asking her why her skin was a different color. Justin and Alena are confused about what they should do. This job is the opportunity of a lifetime, but they had never had to deal with the racist attitudes that they have been facing since moving to this small town.

Be sure to identify the A, B, C & X in each scenario

In some of the descriptions, it may not be clear as there could be multiple factors influencing the family. You can create "hypothetical" explanations for the possible A, B, C & X.

Discuss how communication can contribute to the reduction or resolution of the stressful situation experienced in each of the scenarios.

What recommendations would you offer to family members to resolve the impact of the stress? (not really Psychology but it's the closest subject)

Answer 1

SCENARIO #4 There are multiple stressors in the above scenario. Justin has a job opportunity of a life time, however, he has to make a move to Columbia. Changes are something that not all can adapt to. Moving out is the first stressor. Once the move has been made, the racism that the daughter is facing is a major cause of stressor (A).

The only resource that the family has at their disposal is each other. They are in a rural community with no connections yet. Justin and Alena are the only ones emotionally available for each other and for their daughter (B).

The family is pretty stressed about the situation because they do not know what to do. They are stuck in a limbo where it is a lifetime job opportunity on one hand and racial discrimination and bullying on the other. The stress may take a toll on them since it is indeed a very flimsy situation to be in (C).

The crisis that the family is facing is making a decision between one's job and racial discrimination living in a different community (X).

The impact of the stress can be resolved by debating over the pros and cons of the situation. If Justin wishes to stick to his job, then they have to learn to deal and adapt to the racial discrimination being faced. Justin has to make a choice between job or family's wellbeing. Either ways, the family must make peace with the situation.