This has been the most interesting week. We did an eco-map and I realized that I have an amazing support system in my life. I know all of these people are there and the relationships that I have with them, however, it's another thing to see it on paper. I also realized through this assignment that I have people to pull on. I need to utilize my resources more than I have been. I have a tendency to do everything myself. I don't take a lot of time for myself. This is something that I know I need to do but haven't because I have kids and am always taking care of them. However, I need to take care of me too. I am also not being a very good example in that area so they can see the importance so they do it for themselves one day.
I am also excited about the research class because we are addressing a problem that I am very passionate about. The problem is addressing the issue of children being mistreated when they are in foster homes. These children have already been removed from their homes and everything they have known and now they are in a home with strangers and on top of it are being mistreated or abused. They are powerless in the decisions that are being made in their lives and are placed with people who are taking advantage of the system. How do we stop this? How do we change this? How do we protect these children form further trauma?
The foster care system is a great thing, in theory. But there are a lot of down sides, a lot of loop holes. What can social worker's do to bridge the gap between what the foster care system is supposed to be doing and what is actually happening?
This is the problem that my group will be addressing this semester in the research class.
How wonderful that you have such a clear confirmation of the support network in your life. I had a similar experience doing my ecomap. I often forget how many people I have for support since many of them I do not speak to on a daily basis (or even weekly sometimes), but they are there nonetheless.
ReplyDeleteIt's also great that you get to tie in an area you are passionate about in your research since that will provide the motivation for you through the rest of the semester and also help you gain new insights into the problem area.
As a single parent, I can understand your challenges. When you feel drained and burnt out, reward yourself. For me, it rejuvenates my spirit so I may continue my daily responsibilities. Foster homes and group homes have always been a big question mark for me. Is one better than the other or does it depend on the individual and/or the environment? To me, one thing is for sure: siblings should not be separated. For this reason, I feel that group home must be available for two or more siblings to remain together.
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