Shazia Khan Interview

Interview with Shazia Khan – mother:

I met Shazia Khan in her home on a scheduled visit, her son, Mehrab, was not in the home when I arrived. Shazia was aware of the purpose of my visit and seemed forth coming during her interview. Shazia reported that her son (Mehrab) is staying in her mother’s house during summer time. Shazia informed that Mehrab was sleeping at about 1:00 p.m. and suddenly woke up and did not see his mom, he was scared to be alone and went out of the house to look for his mom. Shazia reported that her brother was in the house painting the basement and did not notice Mehrab was awake.

Shazia stated that her mom is usually in the home as she is the one who looks after Mehrab, but that day she went out to do something, which

Shazia also noted that she works full time in Mississauga, and her mother’s house is in Markham, so her mother brings the child over when she has days off. Shazia explained that she will be moving out to live with her mother soon as she is going through a divorce.

Shazia reported that her husband has an alcohol problem and Mehrab is fully aware of the situation. Shazia also informed that her husband has not lived with her and Mehrab since he landed in Canada (2012). Shazia explained that her husband used to see Mehrab, but his alcohol problem has become worse to the point that he is not interested in visiting son anymore. Shazia disclosed that her husband is not going to take care of Mehrab and he is able to renounce to his parenting rights.

Shazia reported that Mehrab is a very smart child, who understands the situation that she and her husband going through. Shazia informed that Mehrab disapproves his father’s behaviour and has advised him to stop drinking. Shazia also disclosed that her husband has a criminal record for a DUI (driving under the

Mehrab was interviewed in the presence of her mother, uncle and grandmother as he was very timid and got scared of my presence there. I explained my role and the purpose of my visit, I also explained that we care about children and their wellbeing.

I asked questions about school, friends, favorite food, activities and hobbies. Mehrab was very shy at the beginning of the conversation, but after a few minutes he was very talkative. When I asked about the incident, he reported that he got scared because he thought he was left home alone. Mehrab explained that when he woke up, he checked his surroundings and did not see anyone in the room. He therefore, opened the door to find his mom. Mehrab stated that he did not know his uncle was there.

When I asked if he experiences the same situation how he would react, he said that he would look for a phone and call his mom. Mehrab said his mom’s phone number out loud as he memorized. I explained that children need the parent’s supervision at all times and the children must be aware of not opening or answering the door.

Mehrab informed that his mom has told him not to open the door and asked if there is someone at home when he got