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Ben

Ben had multiple arrests growing up. For a period of time, Ben had difficulty meeting curfew, remaining in school due to multiple suspensions, and following rules at home. He has also struggled with disrespecting authority figures such as teachers, police and probation officers. Overall, he was a very angry child who lacked a positive adult male figure in his life to model appropriate behavior towards his mother and others.

In middle school, Ben was diagnosed with ODD, Impulse Control Disorder, and Bi-Polar Disorder. He took medication for a period of time in attempts to assist in improved behavior, yet did not remain on them as he did not like the way they made him feel. He also believed he could change without being on medication. After a few months of intense family counseling and legal supervision, Ben began to improve. Over time counseling sessions would take place on the basketball court while “shooting some hoops”, as a reward for doing well. He continued to make progress over the course of treatment and began to enjoy sports and activities with others.

In high school, Ben lettered in basketball, baseball, and football and graduated with his class. He was accepted into the United States Air Force Academy upon graduation and has the potential to continue pursuing athletics. Ben, who at one time would not speak to others or make eye contact due to shame, now stands proud with his 6’4 stature, shoulders back and eyes focused on the many possibilities he sees for himself in the future.