1|Page Family Assessment
Family Assessment
Student’s Name: Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope
Student Number: S5250595
Course: Working with Family Violence (3023HSV_LG_3248)
Date: 9 Dec 2024
Length: 1,500 words
Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope (S5250595)
2|Page Family Assessment
Introduction
This report will examine the case of Yasmin, a 71-year-old widow living alone in her own
home. Yasmin has limited communication and reading skills and has been diagnosed with a
heart condition. The focus of the report is on the elderly abuse Yasmin has experienced at the
hands of her two adult children. Analysing the risk factors contributing to this abuse while
also considering the broader context of her situation. Additionally, it will apply a theoretical
framework to identify protective factors that could potentially mitigate the abuse, supported
by relevant evidence.
The level of elderly negligence among family members, particularly among adult
children caring for their elderly parents, has been overlooked in recent years. This trend can
be attributed to various factors that reflect the complex dynamics of family relationships
(Meyer & Frost, 2019). Many individuals have come to normalize such behaviors, leading to
a concerning acceptance of neglect within these familial contexts (Meyer & Frost, 2019).
Consequently, this normalization constitutes a form of elder abuse, as illustrated in Yasmin's
case. She suffered financial abuse because her difficulties in reading and communicating her
needs in English hindered her understanding. This situation prompted her son, Arash, to hand
her a document filled with complex details that left her bewildered. Through this act, he
sought to illuminate a troubling pattern of abuse that had remained hidden. In the case of
Yasmin, it becomes essential to examine a broader context of disconnection, highlighting the
cultural mismatches and the layered challenges of intersectional disadvantage that she faces,
which will support an evident substantial harms or risks of harm being experienced.
The notable cultural mismatch associated with the risk of elder abuse underscores the
differences in interactions that arise from varying cultural backgrounds (Meyer & Frost,
2019). These discrepancies can create barriers that impede effective communication,
collaboration, and integration among individuals. Consequently, a lack of understanding and
respect for diverse perspectives can worsen situations, ultimately heightening the
vulnerability of older adults to abuse (Charles, 2010). For instance, Yasmin has experienced
financial abuse, as her son withdrew $150,000 from her bank account without her knowledge,
leaving her with just $1,000 remaining. Furthermore, enduring verbal abuse in the form of
threats could jeopardize her physical well-being, particularly given her health status.
Moreover, examining the complexities of intersectional disadvantages offers profound
insights into the issue of elder abuse, highlighting the intricate web of challenges individuals
endure when they find themselves at the crossroads of multiple social identities, including
race, gender, socioeconomic status, and educational attainment (Morrissey et al., 2022,
Galychyn et al., 2022). These overlapping identities can significantly amplify the
vulnerabilities that some elderly individuals face (Meyer & Frost, 2019). Regardless of their
familial connections or social standing, these individuals may be subjected to various forms
of control, discrimination, or neglect (Amaro et al., 2021). This often stems from unequal
access to critical information and resources, coupled with restrictions that limit older adults'
autonomy, exacerbating their feelings of powerlessness in a society that may undervalue
them (Meyer & Frost, 2019). In Yasmin's case, this culminated in emotional and
Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope (S5250595)
3|Page Family Assessment
psychological abuse, which eventually became a means for her daughter, Sara, to exert
pressure on her. Following Yasmin's heart attack, Sara, who had been responsible for her
daily care, began to manipulate her support as a tactic to coerce Yasmin into transferring
ownership of her house.
Elder abuse is an issue that, despite not being new, remains primarily overlooked
within the broader context of domestic and family violence (DFV) (Gilbert et al., 2022). This
neglect can often be traced to the complex family dynamics that intertwine with deeply
ingrained cultural beliefs and practices (Meyer & Frost, 2019). These cultural norms can
create a nuanced and systematic framework that obscures the reality of elder abuse, making it
challenging to identify and address (Meyer & Frost, 2019). The multifaceted nature of these
familial relationships further complicates our understanding and study of elder abuse in its
various forms (Meyer & Frost, 2019). Additionally, the emphasis on respect for oneself and
others highlights organizational issues. At the same time, the prevailing trend in Western
DFV services tends to prioritize the cultural value of liberal individualism, which fosters
social competitiveness within commercial domains that promote aggressive legal frameworks
(Meyer & Frost, 2019). Furthermore, the notion of liberal identity positions the individual as
a separate entity, liberated and self-determined, whose well-being is defined by a constant
assessment of the costs and benefits that accrue to them personally (Gerold et al., 2023).
So therefore, to be able to analyze indications of harm effectively, it is vital to
highlight collectivist cultural values emphasizing community-oriented qualities such as
loyalty, reciprocal obligation, harmony, and duty. Focusing on these traits is essential for
understanding the construction of culture, mainly through a holistic ontology and an
intrinsically ecological perspective (Meyer & Frost, 2019). In Yasmin's case, the cumulative
psychological impact of her experiences can be understood through a holistic ontology
approach, which emphasizes her interconnectedness and interdependence with her
community. This perspective highlights the importance of improving all aspects of health,
including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions (Gilbert et al., 2022). Her
deep sense of community and unwavering religious devotion as an Iranian woman exemplify
this approach. Strong ties to her community provide her with a sense of belonging and serve
as a reminder of her heritage, allowing her to navigate her identity with pride as her
community actively celebrates and honors her artistic roots. However, her current withdrawal
behaviors may suggest a nagging sense of shame, intricately linked to emotional
repercussions that heighten feelings of stress and depression. This internal struggle can lead
to a pervasive sense of powerlessness and experiences of perceived disloyalty, further
complicating Yasmin's mental well-being.
According to Galychyn et al. (2022), the Ecological Systems Theory illustrates the
interplay among various environmental systems that influence human development. This
theory comprises five layers: microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem, and
chronosystem (YÜKSEL DOĞAN & AYTEKİN, 2021). In Yasmin's case, her microsystem
—which should encompass her family—serves as a primary source of stress, particularly in
terms of financial and emotional abuse. The mesosystem reflects the dynamics between her
immediate family and other external individuals, highlighting a strained relationship that
includes her children and her interactions with healthcare providers. Meanwhile, the macro
system embodies the cultural norms contributing to her hesitancy to seek assistance.
Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope (S5250595)
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Additionally, the chronosystem emphasizes the consequences of Yasmin's recent health
crisis, which has heightened her vulnerability.
Trauma-informed care addresses Yasmin's traumatic experiences and her need for
sensitive, responsive healthcare (Jasmin et al., 2024). This framework emphasizes the
importance of safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment—elements that are crucial for
Yasmin's recovery from abuse. She requires care plans rooted in trauma-informed care
principles that are attuned to her cultural context and designed to minimize the risk of re-
traumatization. Utilizing both frameworks allows for the identification of systemic influences
while ensuring the implementation of trauma-sensitive interventions (Mahood et al.,2024).
This approach fosters a deeper understanding of Yasmin's needs, leading to effective and
compassionate intervention strategies.
Both ecological systems theory and trauma-informed care underscore how systemic
oppression and social inequities contribute to Yasmin's challenges, particularly given her
background in a marginalized community. The systemic issues of racism, sexism, and ageism
are often overlooked by neoliberal policies and gaps in cultural competency, which further
exacerbate her experiences of abuse (Morley & Lund, 2021). To effectively address these
challenges, an inquiry-driven approach grounded in cultural humility must prioritize building
trust and confronting structural barriers (Famely, 2023). Furthermore, integrating social
justice advocacy and intersectionality into her care can help mitigate the abuse she faces and
promote more patient-centred solutions (Meyer & Frost, 2019).
Yasmin should consider seeking legal assistance and prioritizing her safety by
promptly reporting her abuse to the Cultural Council authorities within her community.
Engaging with supportive community networks can also be beneficial. By connecting with
local organizations, religious groups, and cultural associations, Yasmin can combat feelings
of isolation and enhance her sense of belonging. This peer support may empower her and
diminish her vulnerability to future abuse. Taking these steps also facilitates the issuance of
protective orders to safeguard her physical and emotional well-being. Yasmin should consult
with an attorney who fits her budget, as they can help uphold her rights and guide her in
accessing justice should she choose to pursue this path. Additionally, working with legal
representatives who share her cultural values could significantly enhance her ability to
communicate her situation effectively.
Yasmin will also require crisis intervention through social services. She can achieve
this by seeking emergency housing and financial assistance. Experienced social workers can
help her navigate any language or cultural barriers. After assessing her needs, these social
workers will assist Yasmin in developing a personalized plan that aligns with her values and
preferences. Furthermore, additional therapeutic support will be essential in managing the
emotional and psychological effects of abuse. Counselling sessions should focus on culturally
sensitive, trauma-informed approaches, allowing Yasmin to process her experiences and
foster a sense of shared understanding and solidarity.
Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope (S5250595)
5|Page Family Assessment
References
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Galychyn, O., Fath, B. D., Shah, I. H., Buonocore, E., & Franzese, P. P. (2022). A multi-
criteria framework for assessing urban socio-ecological systems: The emergy nexus of
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https://doi.org/10.18863/pgy.826957
Odetunde Ezekiel Tolulope (S5250595)
