Another contribution is the environment they are raised in, if there is violence (physical or verbal) then this could have an impact as well. A child’s brain is most influential the first nine months of their lives and the second stage of brain development occurs between nine months and the age of two. These years of development can severely impact brain growth and the trauma that occurs will stay with them for the rest of their lives. As social workers, we must understand that when children and teenagers that come from trauma act a certain way, it is truly not their fault. 

Their brain has been wired for survival and the parts of the brain “normal” children develop over time, might not be matured or have stopped functioning. This includes, emotional regulation, memory, felt-safety and hyper-vigilance. Adults that work with children from trauma must have an understanding of this and the patience to work with and help children that cannot function at a normal capacity in many settings. I chose this topic because as a case manager for these types of children, I see the lasting impacts that trauma can have on adolescents. However, with patience and continuous training, these children can learn to rewire their brains and self-regulate themselves. 

DFPS. Section 261 of Title 5 in the Family Code outlines the general provisions, reporting of abuse and neglect, confidentiality and privileged communication, investigations, investigations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation in certain facilities and protective order in certain cases of abuse or neglect

Texas Administrative Code: Title 26 Health and Human Services, Chapter 748 Minimum Standards for General Residential Operations. This Administrative Law provides all information in regards to Standard Operating Procedures for Arms of Hope Boles Children’s Home. It discusses child treatment and gives instructions on how to properly take 

care of children while in a General Residential Operation (GRO) as well as a Residential Treatment Center (RTC) (Minimum Standards for General Residential Operations, 2007).

Federal Administrative Law: The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), this law provides guidance to states about child protection under the United States Children’s Bureau (CAPTA, 1988).

and became mentally retarded. The boy’s mother sued the department on failing to act to protect the boy depriving him of his constitutional right under the 14th amendment (DeShaney v. Winnebago Cty, 1989)

relationships. This allows for myself and others to help all of our residents, regardless of the relationship. As Residential Case Manager, I am in charge of all the children on campus in the residential program, 

however, I do assist with helping the single mothers and their children as well in multiple activities, educational matters and anything else that might be asked of me. This service to others is what sets Arms of Hope apart from other organizations that might only do what their job description states. Human relationships and social justice are two major factors that determine the environment here at the Boles Campus. There are many times that we come together as a community of Christian staff members to assist one another and help each other in any way that we can. When it comes to integrity, this is for both topics discussed.