1.

Identify the red flags or areas of concern that could cause potential
developmental problems for the sisters.
Rosalina, 13, and Lupe, 17, both seem to be exhibiting characteristics
that are appropriate and relatively healthy for their level of development.
Rosalina is focused on her friends, she does well in school and seems to be
trying to achieve a higher level of independence from her parents. Lupe too
is trying to achieve a greater level of independence by making plans for her
future, she has friends, and seems to be well-adjusted. Anna, 15, however is
exhibiting clear signs of developmental trouble. Anna is depressed,
withdrawn, and not doing well in school. Anna covers her body purposefully,
which may indicate a negative body image; a major cause of depression in
adolescent girls. Additionally, this is possibly an effort to conceal evidence
of self-cutting from her family. Anna has no friends and peer interaction is a
critical source for personal and social competence development. Adolescents
also learn about sexual relations, compassion, leadership, conflict, and mutual
problem solving through peer interaction. It will be difficult for Anna to
develop the coping strategies she will need in adulthood without peer
relations in adolescence.
Other red flags are highlighted within the information given about
Rolando. Rolando is gay and withdraws from his family in an effort to keep
his sexual preference concealed. He fears his homosexuality will bring shame
to his family and that they will be ashamed of him. This calls into question
his perception of the secure attachment between he and his parents. He
obviously fears being outcast by his family because of his sexuality, which
indicates a very unsecure attachment. Additionally, Rolando, 19, wants to go
out and begin his life, on his own, as a gay young adult but his parents expect
him to remain home and help run the family vineyard. This causes
developmental issues for Rolando concerning control versus autonomy.
Despite his need for independence, the parents continue to exert control.
They seem unable to relinquish control over Rolandos own decision making,
which may cause developmental problems with autonomy.

2. Will the red flags cause developmental problems for the sisters as
individuals or could the potential areas of concern interfere with another
sisters life task?

Secure attachment to parents is crucial in adolescence. A secure

attachment to parents improves self-reliance, independence, behavioral
competence, and psychosocial well-being. It also decreases the likelihood
that problems such as drug abuse, depression, and delinquency will develop.
The unsecure attachment that Rolando is experiencing with his parents could
indicate similar implications for each of the younger siblings as well;
particularly, if Rolando is ultimately outcast by his parents because of his
sexual orientation. The younger siblings may see this and think Im not
perfect either, maybe I too will be outcast for my differences.
The issue of control versus autonomy may also be a problem for all of
the siblings. The siblings who seek independence from their parents may
encounter the same problems Rolando is facing with parental control. Those
who do not seek independence, like Anna, will also be affected. If the
children are not able to develop a sense of autonomy as a result of the
parents control, they may not develop into independent adults. Gender roles
also seem to be a factor. Rolando, the only son, seems to be the only child
who is expected to help keep the family vineyard running. However, this
doesnt negate the fact that there are probably gender-specific
expectations for the girls as well.