Living in Cyberspace

Abstract

This article presents a rationale for the consideration of the role of cyberspace when using a person-in-environment approach to assessment. It examines the significance of cyberspace itself in working with clients who are also its inhabitants and it analyzes the opportunity online communication provides individuals in developing healthy, as well as potentially dangerous, relationships. Case studies, using the Person-in-Environment (PIE) classification system as a framework for assessment, are presented to demonstrate the utility of considering client Internet use as part of an assessment of client functioning.