Problem-solving and decision making has ever been the main reason for the continuous need for and acquisition of knowledge. However, the complexity of various problems and the information available to make decisions requires more information and knowledge is not available from one main source. Being the most complicated field of study due to the unpredictability, human behavior, emotions, and personalities require more consultation and involvement to deal with (Zey, 2008). As it is in many cases and with our case study here, a case may seem simple when viewed through the eyes and the theoretical study of one profession. It, however, becomes very complicated when other professionals and experts are asked to give their opinion about the same. All the variables given in these cases are important and are supposed to reach to an effective decision and action. This essay will, therefore, focus on establishing multidisciplinary approach in integrating the various variables from the various experts and through collaborative measures to getting the solutions for Joseph (Crosby, 2005). The essay begins with the analyzes of the collaborative process for the better understanding of the situation. It then proceeds to the utilization of the multidisciplinary collaboration process in enhancing the decisions made. It will later focus on the course of action taken and the recommendations communicated.
Collaborative process can be said to be the integration ideas and experts from various fields of study in ensuring the effectiveness of the decisions and the actions taken in solving a problem or a dilemma. Collaborative action is the main component of the multidisciplinary action which is a core competence adopted by mainly health practitioners in ensuring better treatment of a problem (Adams, 2011). The concept of collaborative thinking developed with the need to reach to effective actions and decision to the highly complicated problems of the contemporary world. The need to make better and amicable decisions concerning the changing environment in political, social, economic, education, health and other sectors would not rely on ‘formal logic’ as presented by one line of experts (Wood, 2005). For decisions to be made, there needed collaboration, consultation and integration in various disciplines and fields which would help in raising various issues for assessment of the problem.
The main concept here is, therefore, being able to view the problem form various angles and assessing the effect of certain various differently. In giving the highly conflicting views and opinions about the problem, all the sides and variables of the problems, the problem is understood better and even clearly (Crosby, 2005). The multi-facets of the problem as seen through the different eyes into the problem forms the platform of information such and hence understanding the problem better. The collection of more information, which cannot be overlooked in the collaborative approach, is the most important phase and action which enables the participants to make better decisions for the problem (Adams, 2011). The data collected by and from various disciplines is the most important tool which is used for effective arguments into the problems and hence better decision making.
Utilization of multidisciplinary collaboration
In the case of Joseph, integration of the various experts and the collaboration in giving opinions and ideas on the issue may be the most desirable approach (Zey, 2008). The multidisciplinary approach to the psychological problem here will probably give the most amicable solution to this case. So far, we have seen the great process towards getting to the solution in this case. Various professionals have been consulted on the issue and have given their opinions on the probable courses of the problem and the proposed solutions (Klein, 2010). Some of these professionals include the case manager, the guardian, the school administrator, school psychologist, social worker, the class teacher, principals among others. In the process of trying to reach to an amicable and effective solution to help Joseph, the integration and the collaboration of these experts have helped in bringing up the possible causes of the problem. An integrative approach to solving a social problem ensures the better understanding of the problem through insight into the problem (Lyall, Bruce & Tait, 2011).
Collaborative/ multidisciplinary approach ensures that the problem can be identified and defined through all the possible views. The approach creates insight as the problem is viewed and explained by the various experts as they view it according to their fields (Klein, 2010). Conflicting opinions and perspectives on the problems ensure that all the variables are catered for effectively. This approach ensures that there is no stone which is left unturned and hence that every possible conflict in the future is catered for. The conflicting opinions and faceted views also create the understanding of the problem (Wood, 2005). Having defined the problem fully, it becomes very simple to solve the problem and the issues at hand.
In our case, the contrasting view between the school counselor who views the case through cognitive-behavior approach, the school psychologist who views it through the psychodynamic or psychoanalytical approach and also the principal who views it through cognitive perspective approach is highly desirable (Turner, 2004). The different views come with a different conflicting opinion on the case of Joseph. Some suggest that the change in the environment may be the problem while others suggest that the harsh environment in which he was brought up in is the cause. Additionally, we have other opinions suggesting that the love and concern of the mother and the sister may be the problem and hence need to be joined with them again. Others have also suggested that lack of attention and need for power may be the reason for the changing behavior of Joseph. Some experts have also suggested that the social emotions and the emotional changes may be the cause of the adverse behavior of this kid. More so, it was also suggested that the physical abuse that this young boy had gone through was certainly the reason for the behavior change and violence. Some disciplines also suggested that the lack of, possible behaviors and interactions with the biological father may have been the cause of the violent behaviors with Joseph. It was also suggested drugs and possible substance abuse by the child or the mother after and before the birth of the boy may have been the cause of the adverse behaviors observed.
The critical and conflicting views on the problem of individuals from the various disciplines and professions have provided a better insight and understanding of the problem. The multidisciplinary collaboration into the issue has necessitated the criticism of the proposed possible solutions to be applied in this case (Lyall, Bruce & Tait, 2011). For example, some have suggested that the behavior may have come from the positive desires to be the family protector and comforter and even the love of the family while others have suggested that the problem was due to the harsh environment at home. Some have also suggested that the problem came from the desire the desire to be heard and loved while some suggest that it is out of ignorance and lack of discipline that the young boy behaves weirdly and shows the withdrawn syndromes (Turner, 2004). With the conflicting opinions and views of different disciplines, there is more need to research on the problem and hence make consultations in the decision making (Frank, 2008).
Having understood the problem enough through the process of collaboration which included close discussion and phone calls, the challenge remains the combination of the various views in reaching a conclusion. Having identified the various facets and constituents of the complex problem, the problem, and the dilemma remains the choice of the direction to take. This is however handled in the various action as explained below.
In the case of Joseph, and considering the urgency and the importance of the case, there is need to come up with a solution which is informed and effective. Despite the fact that there are many challenges in integrating the many ideas, opinions and views of the problem, measures must be put in place for the decision to be made (Frank, 2008). Some of the actions which will be taken in this case to reach to an agreement are creating a common ground for argument, embracing the differences between the disciplines and assessing the distance among the assumptions.
Firstly, the action of creating a common ground is very critical where different disciplines are in play and a solution in needed. This beats the logic that common ground should be found but rather takes it as something to be created. The professionals and experts, in this case, will have to create a common ground which is certainly based on some level of facts and consideration (Adams, 2011). These may include the fact that they want to improve the psychological welfare of Joseph, Joseph has a psychological problem and also that Joseph’s life have not been favorable. They should also take into consideration that though Joseph’s mother has abused the kid, there is still motherly love that exists. The common ground for the solution, therefore, should be geared towards corrective measures as opposed to punitive measures.
Secondly, there is need to consider embracing differences between the opinions, views, and arguments of the professionals/experts. This assumes that two sensible guys cannot be color-blind and yet be aware of the color in question. The professionals involved in this case are therefore called upon to embrace the differences in the arguments and take them into consideration when making the decision. The opinions and the different variables suggested should, therefore, be taking down in writing and ample research done to ensure that the cause of the problem with Joseph is seen. This will ensure that the solution to be taken is amicable and comprehensive. The many differences should be embraced and reconceived to provide more insight.
Lastly, it will be important to assess the distance from the assumptions made. In defining the problem in question about Joseph’s condition, it is obvious that many assumptions were taken. In giving the different analysis of the problem and the conclusions, it is still obvious that many assumptions have been made. To integrate the opinions and the suggested presented here, it is important to ensure that all the assumptions made are explained and understood for efficiency (Adams, 2011). Having understood the many assumptions made in the collaboration, the distance between these assumptions will have to be assessed to ensure that the team only works with few assumptions while are acceptable and which can be handled. The few the number of assumptions and the narrower the distance between them, the more reliable the problem definition will be.
Recommendations
Having assessed the whole process and the problem seeking solution in the case of Joseph, some of the recommended actions and areas of improvement are as follows:
Firstly, the team should create and enhance the integration and the collaboration approach through the involvement of all the necessary professionals and experts. For example, the team should include professionals dealing with substance and drug abuse who should probably give an insight on how the use of drug affects the growth and development of a child. This will help in ensuring that the variable is taken into consideration and does not affect the decision reached by the team. More professionals needed to be taken into consideration and invited for this.
Secondly, more information needs to be sought from the biological father of the child. This may help in the comparison of the behaviors and characters of the paternal side which may affect the behavior of a child. It may also help to assess the possibility of the use of drugs by the father which may affect the actions and behaviors of the child.
Lastly, the team should focus on getting an amicable to Joseph as well as to the whole family through the restoration of the unity and the well-being of the family. It may be difficult for Joseph to embrace the new environment while he consciously understands that he have a sister and a mother who are not living in the best manner. The team should take into consideration some reunion with the family members which seem to be the peak reason of this behavior.
References
Adams, J. L. (2011). Conceptual blockbusting: A guide to better ideas. Cambridge, Mass: Perseus Pub.
Crosby, B. C. (2005). Leadership for the Common Good: Tackling Public Problems in a Shared-Power World. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons.
Frank, R. H. (2008). Passions within reasons: The strategic' role of the emotions. New York: Norton.
Klein, J. T. (2010). Interdisciplinarity: History, theory, and practice. Detroit: Wayne State University Press.
Lyall, C., Bruce, A., & Tait, J. (2011). Interdisciplinary Research Journeys: Practical Strategies for Capturing Creativity ebook. London: Bloomsbury.
Turner, S. M. (2004). Behavioral Theories and Treatment of Anxiety. Boston, MA: Springer US.
Wood, K. E. (2005). Interdisciplinary instruction: A practical guide for elementary and middle school teachers. Upper Saddle River, N.J: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Zey, M. (2008). Rational choices theory and organizational theory': A critique. Thousand Oaks, Calif. [u.a.: Sage.
