Instructions: Read the following case study and answerthe questions at the end.
Devin is a sixteen year old male with moderate mentaldelays, living with his parents in an upscale neighbourhood. Sincehe turned 15, Devin has begun to grab at his genitals and emit loudgrunting noises whenever he is in the vicinity of girls his ownage. This has caused Mr. and Mrs. Quentin a tremendous amount ofdistress. Because Mrs. Quentin’s profession requires them toentertain clients both at their home and at other venues, this isbecoming a very big problem. Here are the results of an interviewwith Mr. and Mrs. Quentin:
Who is present and what happens just prior to thebehaviour?
Well, actually a variety of things typically happen.When there is a girl present who is between the ages of 14 and 20,when we are in a group of people at a party and when his father andI are engaged in conversation with clients.
Has it ever been the case when it hasn’thappened?
Hmmm, only once. The second to last party we weredetermined not to be embarrassed and so one of us stayed with himall night, engaging him in conversation and getting him food anddrinks. Other than that, it always happens. There have been a fewparties where no young girls are present and he’s done it to myclient’s wives. It’s so embarrassing. That one time we thought itwas over, but the last party was horrible. He came across the roomtoward a young girl and oh, it was horrible.
Has there ever been a time when it’s just been one ofyou there?
Only a couple of times…he still acted up. It didn’t seemto matter whether or not it was his father or myself.
Is he equally likely to emit the behaviour when theparties are at home versus away?
Yes.
Is there any variation to the party? Time of day?Dinners versus non-dinners, entertainment?
He’s less likely to do it at sit-down dinners, but timedoesn’t seem to make a huge difference.
Let’s specifically define the behavioursinvolved.
He grunts (short, loud, low-pitched vocalizations thatsound like short U sound (uh, uh) repeats this sound 6-10 times).He walks quickly (twice normal speed) toward female coming within18 inches proximity. He places right hand over his genitals andcontracts and releases his hand repeatedly. The grunting typicallyhappens 1-2 seconds before he starts to walk and grab (thosebehaviours happen simultaneously). It can occur any number of timesfrom once in an evening to 7-8 incidences per party.
What happens following the behaviour?
Many different things, depending on the occasion. Thegirl screams, backs away or cries for help; his father or I rush tohim , scold him and lead him from the room. Others at the partyrush in to hold him back, others gasp or scold him.
Anything he consistently gets following hisbehaviour?
Hmmm…a reaction from the female and a scolding from us,I guess.
Anything removed from his environment?
Just him!
Questions:
1. After implementation of treatment what would you doand why?
