, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE TO ANSWER YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Assignment Introduction
This assignment explores the development and facilitation of a social group aimed at addressing
troubling behaviors among adolescents, using the case of Lethabo, a 15-year-old learner displaying
disruptive conduct, disrespect, academic disengagement, and gang association. The focus is on
understanding the complexities involved in working with such members and the role of group work
as a strategic intervention method. Through a detailed examination of group contracting,
composition, objectives, benefits, and challenges, this assignment highlights how structured group
processes can foster personal growth, social skills development, and positive behavioral change. The
overall goal is to demonstrate the value of social group work in promoting healthier individual
outcomes, strengthening family dynamics, improving school environments, and contributing to safer,
more supportive communities.
QUESTION 1
Lethabo, a 15-year-old grade 10 learner from Tshilidzi primary school in Venda. Her class teacher has
been complaining about her disruptive behaviour in a class. She is also disrespectful and fails to do her
schoolwork. Whenever educators reprimand her, she insults them and tells them how her boyfriend
Maanda (a well-known gangster leader in the area), will deal with them in a blink of an eye. After
several failed efforts of reprimanding her by the school authority as well as circuit officials, her matter
was referred to the district level of the department of basic education. Her mother was called in and a
decision was taken to get her referred to a social worker. You are a social worker in this case and the
matter was referred right on time because you were busy recruiting members of a group that you are
about to compose. Your group is said to comprise members like Tshilidzi who display troubling
behaviour.
1.1. Explain the recruitment method used in the above scenario. Motivate your answer.
In this scenario, the recruitment method used is referral from another organization. Lethabo was sent
to the social worker by the district level of the Department of Basic Education after the school and
circuit officials failed to change her behaviour. The school authorities identified her as a learner
needing specialised intervention and referred her case to the social worker for further support. This
referral process allows professionals to direct individuals who show problematic behaviour to
appropriate services that can address their needs. By using this method, the social worker receives
members who have already been assessed and recognised as requiring assistance. This ensures that
the group is formed with individuals who can truly benefit from targeted intervention and support.
1.2. In your view, which method would be relevant for orientating Tshilidzi and her fellow
members? Motivate your answer.
The most relevant method for orientating Lethabo and her fellow members would be a combination
of individual intake interviews and didactic instruction with rehearsal of group skills. An individual
interview helps build trust and allows each member to understand the group's purpose and
expectations in a private setting. This approach also addresses their personal feelings and potential
resistance before joining the group. Didactic instruction further clarifies group rules and teaches
important skills such as respectful communication and active listening. Rehearsing these skills gives
members a chance to practice appropriate behaviour in a safe space. Together, these methods prepare
them for successful participation and help create a supportive group atmosphere.
Assignment Introduction
This assignment explores the development and facilitation of a social group aimed at addressing
troubling behaviors among adolescents, using the case of Lethabo, a 15-year-old learner displaying
disruptive conduct, disrespect, academic disengagement, and gang association. The focus is on
understanding the complexities involved in working with such members and the role of group work
as a strategic intervention method. Through a detailed examination of group contracting,
composition, objectives, benefits, and challenges, this assignment highlights how structured group
processes can foster personal growth, social skills development, and positive behavioral change. The
overall goal is to demonstrate the value of social group work in promoting healthier individual
outcomes, strengthening family dynamics, improving school environments, and contributing to safer,
more supportive communities.
QUESTION 1
Lethabo, a 15-year-old grade 10 learner from Tshilidzi primary school in Venda. Her class teacher has
been complaining about her disruptive behaviour in a class. She is also disrespectful and fails to do her
schoolwork. Whenever educators reprimand her, she insults them and tells them how her boyfriend
Maanda (a well-known gangster leader in the area), will deal with them in a blink of an eye. After
several failed efforts of reprimanding her by the school authority as well as circuit officials, her matter
was referred to the district level of the department of basic education. Her mother was called in and a
decision was taken to get her referred to a social worker. You are a social worker in this case and the
matter was referred right on time because you were busy recruiting members of a group that you are
about to compose. Your group is said to comprise members like Tshilidzi who display troubling
behaviour.
1.1. Explain the recruitment method used in the above scenario. Motivate your answer.
In this scenario, the recruitment method used is referral from another organization. Lethabo was sent
to the social worker by the district level of the Department of Basic Education after the school and
circuit officials failed to change her behaviour. The school authorities identified her as a learner
needing specialised intervention and referred her case to the social worker for further support. This
referral process allows professionals to direct individuals who show problematic behaviour to
appropriate services that can address their needs. By using this method, the social worker receives
members who have already been assessed and recognised as requiring assistance. This ensures that
the group is formed with individuals who can truly benefit from targeted intervention and support.
1.2. In your view, which method would be relevant for orientating Tshilidzi and her fellow
members? Motivate your answer.
The most relevant method for orientating Lethabo and her fellow members would be a combination
of individual intake interviews and didactic instruction with rehearsal of group skills. An individual
interview helps build trust and allows each member to understand the group's purpose and
expectations in a private setting. This approach also addresses their personal feelings and potential
resistance before joining the group. Didactic instruction further clarifies group rules and teaches
important skills such as respectful communication and active listening. Rehearsing these skills gives
members a chance to practice appropriate behaviour in a safe space. Together, these methods prepare
them for successful participation and help create a supportive group atmosphere.
