Communion with Colin: A Case Study of Halting a Retreat from Anxiety

A 16 year old boy of superior intelligence was referred for severe procrastination in completing school work. He was nearly mute with the social worker at times, and yet conveyed a strong need for understanding of his emotions. The concepts of separation anxiety, affect attunement, and social referencing are discussed regarding his dilemma along with the therapeutic value of social workers, counselors, and teachers finding opportunities to share in students' affective experiences.