The Medicated Child: Social Work Ethics Applied to Decision-Making When Using Pharmacology to Address Behavioral Health Issues in Children and Youth

Have you ever noticed a disparity in psychotropic medications being used to treat or manage behavioral concerns for children and youth in the foster care system? If so, or if you have ever been curious or concerned, then this training is for you! It is not uncommon to have to learn, educate and spread awareness as professionals about the use of psychotropic medications in the children and youth population that we serve in today’s society. During this interactive webinar we will be reviewing the statistics and information about the use of psychotropic medications as well as how to best advocate and use the NASW code of ethics in relation to this topic.

Learning Objectives:

• Review best practice standards for the use of pharmacological interventions with childreninvolved in the child welfare system
• Critically think about the ethical consideration that one must address when advocating for achild who is receiving pharmacological interventions

Format for the 3 Hour Webinar:

• Review and discuss the NASW Code of Ethics in relation to the use of psychotropicmedications for Children/Youth
• Examination of current research and statistics related to the use of psychotropicmedications for children and youth in the child welfare system
• Classifications of medications prescribed to Children/Youth to address learning andbehavioral challenges
• Discover helpful tips to assist caregivers/youth with the use of psychotropic medications
• Case application
• Evaluation