Social Work with Individuals and Families - Final Exam Study Guide

A collection of question and answer flashcards designed to assist with studying key concepts from the Social Work with Individuals and Families course.

What are the key components of building a relationship in social work?

Empathy, authenticity, and rapport.

What is the purpose of verbal following in social work?

To establish and maintain an effective communication flow with clients.

What theory explains the process of personal change?

The Stages of Change Theory.

What is an assessment in social work?

A systematic process for gathering information about a client's needs and circumstances.

What factors should be considered in different types of assessments?

Client history, current needs, environmental influences, and cultural factors.

How do you gather information for an assessment?

Through interviews, standardized tools, and collateral information from other sources.

What conceptual frameworks are important in family assessments?

Systems theory, ecological perspective, and cultural considerations.

What is the difference between cultural sensitivity, cultural responsiveness, and cultural competence?

Cultural sensitivity acknowledges differences; cultural responsiveness applies those differences in practice; cultural competence actively integrates knowledge into effective interactions.

What are some modes of intervention in social work?

Counseling, advocacy, case management, and community organizing.

What is the miracle question in social work?

A technique to help clients envision their ideal future and identify steps to achieve it.

What does SOAP stand for in social work documentation?

Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan.

What is the primary focus of goals in social work?

To provide direction and measurable outcomes for client progress.

What distinguishes goals from tasks or objectives in social work?

Goals are broader and long-term; tasks are specific steps taken to achieve those goals.

What factors are crucial in developing goals with clients?

Client strengths, cultural context, desired outcomes, and barriers.

How does goal development differ for involuntary clients?

It often requires more collaboration and consideration of the client’s willingness to engage.

What are some methods to monitor progress towards goals?

Regular check-ins, assessments, feedback, and measurable outcomes.

What does EBP stand for and what are its pros and cons?

Evidence-Based Practice; pros include improved client outcomes, while cons may involve resistance to change and limited applicability.

What are some barriers to change identified in social work?

Fear of the unknown, lack of support, and ingrained habits.

What are cognitive distortions?

Negative thought patterns that can impact a person's perception of reality.

What elements increase the likelihood a person will respond well to confrontation?

Trust, empathy, clarity of purpose, and a respectful approach.

What are guidelines for effective confrontation in social work?

Be direct yet respectful, focus on behavior, and express care for the relationship.

What is transference in the context of therapy?

When a client projects feelings about someone from their past onto the therapist.

What is countertransference?

When a therapist projects their own feelings onto a client.

What steps can be taken to reduce relational dynamic barriers?

Enhancing self-awareness, improving communication skills, and maintaining professional boundaries.

What is trauma-informed care and why is it important in social work?

An approach that recognizes the prevalence of trauma and integrates principles of safety, empowerment, and choice in practice.

What is termination in social work?

The process of concluding the helping relationship and preparing clients for independence.

What are the four main tasks of termination?

Review progress, prepare for future challenges, discuss closure, and evaluate the overall process.