Vargas Case Study: Session 1

Bob and Elizabeth Vargas have been married for 10 years. They have two children, Frank (8)

and Heidi (6). Bob teaches high school PE and coaches football, wrestling, and baseball.

Elizabeth recently quit her job where she was an attorney in a law firm that specializes in Family

Law. She enjoyed her work, had a passion for adoption cases, but decided to stay home for a few

years while the kids were young. Elizabeth believes that Frank might have ADHD. She

complains that he cannot sit still, does not listen, is forgetful, and is always getting hurt. She

believes that much of these injuries are due to Frank’s impulsivity. Elizabeth suggests you talk to

Frank’s teachers who have noticed that he has trouble waiting his turn, will often blurt out

answers without raising his hand, and frequently loses things. Elizabeth acknowledges that Frank

has always been an active child, but believes these behaviors, including picking on his little

sister, are getting worse. Bob seems to be amused by these anecdotes and accuses Elizabeth of

“overreacting,” stating that, “Boys will be boys.” Bob suggests you talk to his parents, both

retired teachers, who agree with him and don’t think there’s anything wrong with Frankie. You

notice Heidi sitting close to Elizabeth, playing on her mother’s cell phone. She glances up

occasionally when her brother approaches, but is otherwise engrossed with the game. Frankie

began the meeting sitting between his parents, but noticed Legos in the corner and was

immediately attracted to them. He interrupts several times to share stories about his teacher,

classmates, and his grandparents, despite numerous reprimands from his mother. After a few

minutes, Frank asks to use his Dad’s phone (in a hurry, Bob had left it in the car), wanders

around the office, looks out the window and comments on a squirrel, then grabs the phone from

his sister who, of course, protests. After Elizabeth had quieted the commotion, you question any

recent changes. Bob and Elizabeth both acknowledge an increase in marital tension and admit to

having several arguments a week, some in front of the children. Bob blames Elizabeth for being

“too high-strung” and says she just needs to relax. Elizabeth says she is unable to relax, fearing

Frankie will end up damaging things or hurting himself or Heidi. She says that if Frankie would

be able to control his behaviors, their marriage would improve dramatically. This, they report, is

the reason for seeking therapy for Frankie.