MAKE A DECISION: What do you think is the best course of action for Kate?

1. Kate is not ready for discharge nor is she ready to be responsible for her son. She should spend at least 30 more days inpatient before any reunification but can see her son on supervised visits at the rehab facility.
2. Kate is not ready for discharge, but both she and her son would benefit from being reunited. Since there is space available, she and her son should stay at a residential facility for mothers and their children.
3. Kate may be ready for discharge but clearly needs intensive outpatient treatment. She should be discharged and, if she continues to make progress, reunification with her son can be arranged.
4. Kate is ready for discharge and should attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Reunification with her son will likely motivate her to stay clean and sober, but periodic visits from the Child Protective Services social worker is critical.

Think about the issues that influenced your recommendation for Kate. Why did you choose the option that you did? Consider the following issues in your response:

• How should Kate's past disciplinary practices be characterized?
• What disciplinary practices might be more appropriate?
• How likely is it that the interventions Kate has received will actually change her behavior?
• What are the potential impacts of the decision on her son?