PYC4808 Assignment 3 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE 17 September 2025

Case Study: The Jackson Family Background: The Jackson family consists of three generations: the grandparents (George (71) and Evelyn Jackson (65)), their son (David Jackson, 45), his wife (Laura Jackson, 41), and their two children—Jake (17) and Lily (13). Laura’s father, Peter, is 70 and lives in a retirement village. Her mother passed a year ago, at age 68. The family lives in a suburban area in Pinetown. Jake was referred to psychotherapy by his school counsellor due to signs of depression, declining academic performance, and increasing social withdrawal over the past six months. Jake, currently in matric (grade 12), had previously been a high-achieving student and athlete. However, over the past 6 months, his grades have dropped significantly, he has quit the cricket team, and has become increasingly isolated. He spends most of his time in his room, gaming or sleeping, and has little interaction with family or peers. Jake has also expressed feelings of hopelessness and meaninglessness. He denies suicidal ideation but reports chronic fatigue and difficulty concentrating. His parents, David and Laura, brought him to a family therapist at the urging of the school, although David initially expressed scepticism about psychotherapy. Family History: George Jackson (71) is a retired military officer, emotionally reserved, highly disciplined, and authoritative. George had little involvement in raising his children emotionally but emphasised obedience, order, and achievement. Evelyn Jackson (65) was always a stay at home wife and mother, more emotionally expressive than George but often deferential to his authority. She took on the emotional caretaking of the children but struggled with anxiety and chronic health issues. George tended to make the rules in the family, with little resistance from Evelyn. David Jackson (45) is an only child, and is a mechanical engineer, is pragmatic and focused on problem-solving, often emotionally distant. He grew up striving to meet his father's standards and rarely received praise or emotional validation. David has a perfectionistic streak and struggles with expressing emotions. Laura Jackson (41) is a schoolteacher. She is warm and nurturing but tends to over-function in the family, often absorbing the emotional needs of her children and spouse. Laura comes from a family with a history of enmeshment and covert emotional loyalty. She is often the mediator in family conflicts and takes on the role of peacekeeper. Jake Jackson (17) is described as highly sensitive and introspective, with a history of perfectionism and high achievement. He is labelled as the “family’s “golden child” until recently. Lily Jackson (13) is outgoing, socially active, and does well in school. Appears well-adjusted but often makes dismissive comments about Jake’s “moodiness” and seems to have adapted to being the