Demonta Bad Behavior Case Study

Demonta is currently placed at Westhaven Crisis Center. He has been there since August 23, 2017. Demonta's mother has no reported alcohol/drug problems. However, she is a single parent raising five kids on her own. Demonta consistently disobeys his guardian, but has no history of running away from the home. Demonta is sometimes subject to appropriate consequences for bad behavior and sometimes receives appropriate rewards for good behavior. His guardian frequently demonstrates inadequate supervision. Nevertheless, his guardian clearly disapproves of his behavior. Demonta's home features verbal intimidation, yelling and heated arguments and some conflict, but it is well managed. The family environment appeared to be financially challenged

with limited furnishings and décor for display. His family provides some opportunities for growth, but inconsistently provides love, caring and support. Demonta has a close relationship with his mother, sister, brother and extended family. There is a moderate social support network for Demonta's family.

Demonta is one of six children born to Ms. Faircloth. His father was reportedly murdered around 2007. Ms. Faircloth indicated her cousin, who resides in Portsmouth and was in the military, has legal guardianship of Demonta, although he has always resided with his mother. Ms. Faircloth indicated financial stressors and barriers she is working through to parent her children. She also indicated two of her children have been involved in the system and have been incarcerated.
Ms. Faircloth does not condone what her son does despite their life situations. She indicated her belief that “he’s gone too far and doing too much.”
Ms. Faircloth indicated a strained relationship with Demonta. She indicated she sought assistance for his behaviors in the past, but was told he had to be charged before he could receive services. She admitted she was referred to counseling, but failed to follow through on the referral. She does not feel Demonta listens to her or shares things with her. She knew his behavior was going too far and he felt as if he could get away with things. She stated other people would call and inform her of Demonta’s actions. She fears for his safety as she has had individuals come looking for her son. Demonta indicated he knows his mother wants him to change his actions and he feels he was trying to do that prior to his incarceration.
Prior to being detained, Demonta resided with his mother and four siblings in the Shea Terrace section of the city of Portsmouth.

His older brother lives with his girlfriend. Ms. Faircloth did not know his address. Ms. Faircloth also indicated she keeps her grandchildren on occasion. The family reported only residing there for approximately one month as they had to relocate due to a house fire. Ms. Faircloth indicated she started the house fire accidently by leaving hot dogs cooking on the stove. She is attempting to re-establish a residence for herself and her children. They now share rooms in a 3 bedroom, 1 bath single family home. On August 8, 2017, this officer conducted a home visit. The home consisted of a living room and dining room and kitchen area. It was not furnished and all bedding was on the floors. Ms. Faircloth indicated Demonta shares a room with his five-year-old brother. She also indicated rent was approximately $900 a month. The home is centrally located to schools, businesses and religious assemblies. Demonta indicated he frequents other areas in Portsmouth and rides his bike to get around. The neighborhood is diversified and consists of lower to middle income families. The socioeconomic status of the area is average and criminal activity is sometimes present. The home is located within close proximity to local businesses, schools and religious assemblies. The family is aware of local community resources and has transportation. They frequently engage in family activities like shopping, visiting other family members, watching television and completing household chores together. The home was in good order, sparsely furnished but there were no observable issues in the structure or within the

dwelling.