Raul’s Story—Working Through Aggression to a Bright Future

By Maria Loraine Araiza, LBSW, Social Worker

Eleven–year-old “Raul” and his brother were placed at El Paso based Lee & Beulah Moor Children’s Home because their mother had abandoned them and they had an abusive father.  Raul suffered from his father’s aggression and saw his younger brother victimized from the behavior, which was especially violent when his father had been drinking. When Raul was upset, he began to act out in anger just like his father, which only added to the unstable family environment.

Raul’s extended family saw what was happening and wanted desperately to care for Raul, but didn’t have the resources. They finally came to Lee & Beulah Moor Children’s Home for help. He and his brother were immediately placed at the home and took residence in one of the group cottages. 

Raul Works Through Anger Management Issues At Children's Home

As might be expected, Raul had trouble adjusting at the beginning of his placement and frequently trashed his room, punching the walls and doors and throwing things. He would then isolate himself and refuse to talk to his cottage parents or the staff. But his cottage parents were persistent and didn’t give up. They calmly talked to him and helped him understand the consequences of his actions and helped him work out his anger in a constructive way. He was enrolled in intensive therapy.

In a short time, Raul improved. While he would still act out in anger, the violent behavior stopped. He is now talking through his emotions and no longer hitting himself or throwing things. His relationship with his brother is stronger and they share an important family bond.

Raul Showing Signs Of Growth In Both School And Relationships

Raul is a smart young man with excellent potential—and he’s showing it every day. He is doing well in school, making As and Bs and his classroom behavior is improving. In fact, there have been no behavioral concerns from his school so far this year. On the contrary, Raul receives regular praise from his teachers for his performance and progress. His future is bright.