Control Issues in Resettlement: Working with the Difficult Client

Publication Date: June 1996

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Irene Marocco

Research Area: Population and demographics; Social conditions

Keywords: Social Services; Immigration; Mental Health

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The chief dynamic in the relationship between caseworkers and the difficult client is often the struggle to maintain or regain control. Such clients, who display overanxious, blaming, entitled, and complaining behavior, evoke feelings of anger and irritation in their workers. Using a developmental object relations framework to conceptualize these behaviors makes work with difficult clients more manageable. By applying the principles of effective parenting, caseworkers can help facilitate their clients' adjustment.

In Journal of Jewish Communal Service, v.72 no.4, Summer 1996.