Discussion Guide

Rise stories can help you start discussions in support groups and parenting classes. If you are a parent advocate or work with parents in a group setting, have your group read the story out loud and use the questions below to guide a discussion.

February 2008 Story:
Held Hostage by Lawrence Pratt

SUMMMARY:
When Lawrence’s son is taken into foster care, he and his wife do everything they can to bring him home. But an overcrowded family court system leaves them in limbo for more than a year. Lawrence speaks out about his experiences so that other families might be spared the same suffering but sees no change in his case.

DISCUSSION:
Begin by asking the group’s general impression of what they read. How did the story affect them? What stood out for them the most? From their responses, you can lead the discussion where parents are interested in taking it.

Here are some questions you might pose to your group:

• Lawrence was faced with a frustrating and painful situation, and felt ashamed and helpless, yet he continued to work through the official channels of the child welfare and family court systems to advocate for his son. What do you think it was like for Lawrence to continue working within the rules of the child welfare and family court systems? How have you advocated for your children even when you’ve felt hurt or angry?

• It’s remarkable that Lawrence managed not to let his pain and anger make him lose control, or give up hope all together. How do you think he was able to do that? How have you responded to stressful situations? What has helped you stay in control or stay hopeful, or recover when you’ve become overwhelmed?

• Lawrence stayed focused on proving himself as a father. What actions did Lawrence and his wife take to be there for their son and to prove that they were good parents? What actions have you taken to support your children or prove yourself as a parent?

• Lawrence chose to speak up about his situation, but it wasn’t easy. “Even though I am falsely accused, the shame and stigma is a heavy load,” he wrote. What motivated Lawrence to speak up despite his shame? Have there been times when you have been able to take a positive step or share something about yourself despite feeling shame? What did you share and what motivated you to share it? What was the experience like?

• Despite not seeing a change in his case, Lawrence hopes that his testimony will improve the family court system and the child welfare system, and keep other families from suffering the way his has. Do you believe Lawrence’s testimony will make a difference? If so, how? If not, why not? What do you think parents can do to improve the experiences of parents and children involved in the child welfare system?

• Finally, the group can discuss what they learned from the story and what parts they related to the most. What steps or insights that Lawrence describes surprise them or might help them through a similar situation?

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