Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 169

Special Editions
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In our work, we often rely on studies and research from overseas. For
instance, pain based behaviour according to Cornell University’s research,
comprises the following: impulses outburst, aggression, running away, self
injury, defiance, inability to regulate emotions, and trauma re-enactment. 12
Pain-based behaviour arise from traumatic episodes that children experience.
Exposure to trauma affect the way children think, feel and act. Trauma may lead
to poor self-regulation, aggression, poor impulse control, low concentration
and poor interpersonal relationships. Traumatised children could also reenact trauma by exhibiting such pain-based behaviour. We know that
some of the behaviours listed are common among the cases that we have
seen. But the question is, have we tested it out to show that Singapore’s
context is consistent with this piece of research; or are there manifestations
of other pain-based behaviours which are unique in our context? Another
question which I will be interested to know is, how common each specific
behaviour is among our children who have experienced trauma, so that we
can better equip our social workers to address them? Hence, embarking
on local research, not just reading about research conducted by overseas
academics, will ensure that our practice is more evidence-based.
Conclusion
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So I urge you to:
• Record and document what works, what works better
• Collect practice wisdom which is localized and contextualized
• Collaborate and investigate!
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I am happy that there are existing platforms for social workers, and
social work leade rs to share their learning, brainstorm ideas and implement
them.
• Tuning in to the Leaders’ Series
• Dialogue sessions
• Principal Social Workers’ Seminar (for social work leaders)
• Thought Exchange (for social work leaders and experts in other fields)
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I will end with one of my favourite quotes. I have just completed a
policy course in NUS for third and fourth year students. I always leave with
them issues that set them thinking which I believe is more important than
homework.
“I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about
besides homework”
Lily Tomlin as “Edith Ann”
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I hope I have left with you something to think about today.
Cornell University (2009). Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Reference Guide (6th Edition)
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