ANSWER

1. Describe the critical event you experienced as a human services intern.

In my role as a human services intern, I encountered a critical event involving a man who appeared to be suffering from substance abuse. The incident occurred when the man approached a table where myself and other interns were situated. Without any apparent provocation, he began using profane language and directing it at us. This unexpected and aggressive outburst marked a significant moment during my internship.

2. Analyze the potential causes of this critical event.

Several potential causes could have contributed to this critical event:

a. Substance Abuse: It is evident that the man was struggling with substance abuse, which can impair judgment, mood, and behavior, leading to unpredictable and aggressive actions.

b. Frustration or Stress: The man may have been facing personal challenges, stressors, or frustrations that led to his outburst. Substance abuse often co-occurs with underlying emotional and psychological issues.

c. Lack of Support: He might not have access to appropriate support systems or resources for managing his substance abuse problem, which can exacerbate feelings of frustration and hopelessness.

d. Triggers: Certain triggers in the environment or personal life might have set off his anger and aggression, and the presence of interns or the internship setting could have played a role in triggering his outburst.

3. Reflect on how you and your fellow interns responded during the critical event.

During the critical event, our response was primarily focused on maintaining safety and professionalism. We attempted to:

a. Stay Calm: It was important to remain composed and not escalate the situation further by reacting emotionally.

b. Ensure Safety: Our immediate priority was to ensure the safety of ourselves and the man involved. We maintained a safe distance and avoided any confrontational behavior.

c. Active Listening: While not directly engaging with the man’s anger, we practiced active listening, acknowledging his presence and offering assistance if he was willing to accept it.

d. Seeking Supervision: We informed our supervisor or a higher authority within the internship organization about the situation to ensure proper guidance and support.

4. Explain what you learned from this critical event and how it may impact your future work in human services.

This critical event provided several valuable lessons:

a. De-Escalation Skills: I learned the importance of de-escalation techniques when dealing with individuals in crisis, especially those with substance abuse issues. This skill will be essential in my future work to maintain a safe environment for both clients and professionals.

b. Empathy and Understanding: It reinforced the significance of empathy and understanding for individuals facing addiction. People with substance abuse problems often experience stigma and discrimination, and it’s crucial to approach them with compassion.

c. Team Communication: The event highlighted the importance of effective communication within the team and with supervisors. Reporting and seeking guidance promptly is crucial to ensure a coordinated response.

d. Boundaries: I learned the importance of setting boundaries while working in human services. It’s essential to maintain personal safety and professionalism while providing support to individuals in crisis.

Overall, this critical event has deepened my understanding of the complexities and challenges involved in human services work, and it will undoubtedly influence my approach in future interactions with clients and situations of crisis.

Question Description