Module 2

Part 1: Just as all families have strengths, at some point all families encounter challenges. Families unable to cope well are often isolated from resources, face a variety of challenges and are stressed by numerous problems that compound one another. Stress can become crisis— the family moves, a parent is laid off, childcare arrangements fall through, a new step family comes into being, the car breaks down, a child becomes ill, the rent goes up and so on.

The families you will encounter in your work as a CASA/GAL volunteer are, by definition, under stress and likely to be in crisis. Their involvement in the child welfare system, and the perceived threats to their parental rights serve to increase their stress. Some families cope well and adapt effectively to stress and crisis; others do not and become overwhelmed.

These families may develop patterns that lead to and then perpetuate abuse and neglect. Their stress response diminishes their ability to attend to the needs of their children.

Part 2: Watch this 5-minute video to learn about how to build adult capacities in order to improve the lives of children and strengthen our communities.

Part 3: Complete the stress level assessment found here.

Part 4: In the online discussion forum, post your responses to the following questions:

• What color would you assign to having your child removed from your home by the child welfare system?

• How might stress affect a family’s interactions with CASA/GAL volunteers and other child welfare professionals? What color might they identify to indicate their stress?

• As a CASA/GAL volunteer, how might understanding the stress level of a family affect your recommendations?