Human Behav Sonny, Aged Twelve,

Human Behav

Sonny, aged twelve, and Ashlee, aged six, are in the care of their older sister Ree Dolly. Ree Dolly is seventeen and therefore nearly at the age of majority. The mother of the three children is mentally ill, and Ree Dolly takes care of her too. Jessup, the father, is dead. There are several issues at stake with the family. First, Ree Dolly is at an age at which she will need to start considering planning for the future, attending college, or developing a career. However, she wants to remain with her family because she is their primary caregiver. Second, the family must be understood within the context of Ozark culture. Third, issues related to poverty and political disenfranchisement must be taken into consideration.

This case study illuminates the importance of sensitivity to micro-cultures and subcultures. The Ozark hillbilly culture is one that has been entrenched and relatively stable for several generations. Its roots can be traced back to American Westward expansion. While the predominant racial and ethnic groups in the Ozarks trace their roots to European ancestry, the family in question is not unfamiliar with the diverse landscape of the United States.

The eldest sister finds herself in a maternal role, prematurely aged by the weight of her responsibilities. While she does not view her younger brother and sister as burdens, Ree Dolly does need to understand that at this time in her life she should be exploring her options for creative, personal, and professional development. Caring for her siblings is her greatest concern, which is remarkable for a young woman of her age. Many seventeen-year-olds are only concerned with themselves. The role of the social worker vis-a-vis Ree Dolly is to empower her while also assuring her that her younger siblings are cared for too.

One of the primary responsibilities of the state is to see to it that the mother receives adequate care and that Ree Dolly does not need to worry about supporting her. Because Ree Dolly cannot continue to feed and shelter her mother, the state recommends placing the mother in a suitable care home located near to Ree Dolly and her siblings. This way, Ree Dolly can visit her mother every day if she wants to, without worry. Her mother will be receiving the best care possible.

Exploring local options for education and employment for Ree Dolly will help determine the next step. If Ree Dolly is eligible for small business development assistance, she may be able to qualify for a grant or other funding for starting her own business. If Ree Dolly wants to go to university to expand her career options, then she may be able to do so while keeping the family intact. Many universities offer distance learning opportunities for people like Ree Dolly, who have families and want to take care of loved ones while going to school.