Read the following case study: Hal Crisp is a 19-year-old young man who likes to

Question

Read the following case study:

Hal Crisp is a 19-year-old young man who likes to dress up in women’s clothes and go clubbing. His parents disapprove of this, not only because they are embarrassed that Hal is a cross-dresser, but because they think that the ecstasy and other drugs at the clubs are dangerous. Hal says that he goes clubbing because that’s the only place he feels accepted. He says he certainly does not feel accepted by his family. Using what you have learned in the Week Four resources, how would you approach this client as an addiction counselor? Do you think Hal is at risk for addiction? What special considerations would you keep in mind given this client’s sexual orientation?

Explanation / Answer

I would take a very cautious approach towards this case because Hal is in a vulnerable position to develop addition related disorders. Currently, his history does not suggest any sort of dependence or abuse, merely exposure to certain drugs. We do not know yet to what extent Hal is consuming the drugs that are discussed. Given the Hal’s sexual orientation, I would be considerate towards the social stigma and parental opposition that he would be facing. He can develop substance abuse disorders due to a need for an escape or relief from the resulting discrimination and disapproval. The feeling of ‘acceptance’ in dangerous parties and clubs would only serve to reinforce his disconnection from the society at large. Thus, family counselling would be an important step in the overall intervention plan as well.

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