The McIntyre Family

Part 8 - "I've changed my mind": Richie's View

Who do you relate to?

Click here to watch Part 8 - "I've changed my mind"

Click here for Zoe's view

Click here for Chloe's view

Click here for Richie's view

Click here for Steve's view

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Counsellor Comments

Richie clearly thinks that "consulting" him is just another way of telling him that Zoe and Steve have made a decision. Another child in the family might mean that Richie is no longer the only boy --this might feel good to him, or he might feel that he has lost a special place. He might begin to wonder whether he will get called on to babysit --and not like that idea. there are all sorts of ways that a new baby will impact on the family dynamics. Maybe doing a family map would help them to see how it woud affect them all.

• Do you think Zoe is right to discuss the issue of having another baby with her son?
• Or do you think the adults should make a decision and then inform the other two children?
• Can you see how it might lead to Steve feeling that he is less important to Zoe than her children are?
• How much should children be included in the decisons that are made?
• Do the adults need to discuss together which issues the children should have a say in?

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